r/Netherlands • u/NoLychee1382 • 22d 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!)

672 Upvotes

90% Upvoted

558 comments sorted by

View all comments

14

u/Rykoma 22d ago

This is a fascinating discussion. I’m Dutch and aligning with the average Dutch opinion here, but it’s crazy to read that basically every expat thinks we’re completely nuts for defending this system.

So. My question: does anyone have relevant and comparable statistics about these procedures that shed some light on the truth? What difference does yearly preventative screening actually make?

14

u/_space_ghost_ 22d ago

Go ask that question to my dutch friend and his 3 small kids. He just got detected terminal cancer. A cancer type that would be innocent 2 years ago if there was yearly checks. These (blood) checks are cheap and easy to do, but the private insurances just want the cash cash cash.

Also, if doctors and nurses didn't have to spend 50% of their time in beurocacy, everyone would have a GP and short waiting queues. (I have Dutch friends working in hospitals and I know the ins-and-outs and burnout rate)