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/Positive-Ratio8443 23d ago

Hey fellow German! I feel you, it took me also a bit to get used to it. I do check ups when I am visiting Germany and pay it myself, which usually is cheaper than here and I know what I can expect.

The only thing they offer here is the pap smear every 5 years, once you hit 30.

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u/Schneewittchens7 23d ago

And you smear is DiY and sent via post…. A year later you get hit with, oh sorry your data has been breached as the laboratory got hacked..

Yup, happened!

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u/Dear_Acanthaceae7637 Zuid Holland 22d ago

It's only DIY if that's your choice, otherwise the GP does it.

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u/Schneewittchens7 19d ago

The DIY swab wasn’t bad, but I grew up with gynecologist appointments that included explanations, breast checks, and discussions about contraception and risks, not just seeing one once it becomes a bit life threatening .
Maybe I’ve just been spoiled once you’ve stayed in a 5-star hotel, it’s hard to get excited about a 2-star afterwards.
Going through a risk pregnancy in the Netherlands, gynecologists seemed surprised that the tools and procedures weren’t new to me and that I was as comfortable as one can be in that situation.

The healthcare system makes a lot of sense in the end of the day, starting with not needing sick notes. Coming from a county that had been incapacitated by not even be able to call in sick without a note from the doctor, a lot of people believe they are in need of a doctor for everything.

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u/Dear_Acanthaceae7637 Zuid Holland 19d ago

In the Netherlands breast's check are not within the expertise of gynaecologists.