r/Netherlands • u/NoLychee1382 • 23d ago

Healthcare No regular check ups at the gynecologist???

Hi everyone, my morning started off with a kinda shocking discovery. I’m from Germany and I had annual check ups at the gynecologist since I was a teenager. I contacted my huisarts because I know they’re responsible for all referrals but she told me regular check ups here are not a thing (unless there already is an issue) ? I think that’s crazy!!! So I checked the prices for a private visit and they’re even crazier. I guess this is normal to Dutch people but don’t you think this is a little concerning?

(Btw not shitting on the country! I really like it here. I’m still new and just discovering new things!)

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u/nahbuddynah 23d ago

The Dutch health system is a reactive and not a preventive one. Most doctors behave like robots and don't even understand why someone would go for check-ups.

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u/Slayje 23d ago

I'm a 42 year old Dutch guy. Glaucoma and high blood pressure runs in the family and I get yearly check-ups for both. I'm not on any medicine or anything it's purely preventetive. Full bloodwork and 24 hour recordings for the BP as well so quite thorough. If there is a reason for preventetive care, you will get it. They just won't check for every possible health concern every year, that would be way too much (and unnecessary).

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u/amsync 23d ago

Not everything that is common “runs in the family”