Healthcare for internationals (H4i) is a non-profit network of organisations that aim to close the gap between Dutch healthcare and the needs and expectations of patients with an international background. The network has members and projects in 5 regions across the Netherlands.
Research
Research has shown that many of the 850.000 people from an international background, living and working in the Netherlands, don’t feel comfortable with Dutch healthcare. Confidence in doctors is very low; only 32% trust the judgement of their doctor, compared to 85% amongst the Dutch.
This is partly because internationals are used to other health systems that allow, for instance, direct access to medical specialists or where antibiotics or diagnostic tests are more readily prescribed. In addition there may be differences in culture and in most cases a language barrier. Being told that Dutch healthcare is amongst the best in the world does not automatically build confidence and often even is counterproductive.
Navigating Dutch healthcare
Many expats and other internationals not only feel uncomfortable in Dutch healthcare, they also find themselves poorly informed about the system. This site aims to provide information to internationals about Dutch healthcare and Health insurance that better meets their needs.
Help us to close the gap
H4i is calling on internationals living in the Netherlands to help healthcare providers in their city to close the gap between Dutch healthcare and their needs and expectations.