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What is Private Health Services?

Private Health Services is a service unique to the Netherlands that provides personalized guidance on healthcare and health-related questions. Clients are assigned a single point of contact: a personal Private Health Advisor. This expert advisor works closely with the client, helps explore options, and guides them in making choices that best suit their personal situation.  

We operate independently of health insurers and healthcare providers. This allows us to look beyond the options covered by health insurance or the healthcare services available in the client’s region. When necessary, we bring in additional medical expertise and handle practical matters and administrative tasks on the client’s behalf.

Good to know: Private Health Services does not make medical diagnoses, provide treatments, or give medical advice. The treating healthcare provider remains responsible for any medical assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What impact do private health services have on the capacity of scarce healthcare resources?

Healthcare capacity is a scarce resource in the Netherlands. We believe it is important to manage it carefully and responsibly. For example, we identify where waiting times for care are shortest for our clients. Our clients do not receive priority over others on the waiting list.

Wealso focus on a healthy lifestyle: working on your health whether or not you have symptoms, so that healthcare needs or health problems can be prevented. We assist clients in requesting health screenings to ensure they are used appropriately and do not lead to unnecessary diagnostics and treatment.

Is a Private Health Advisor a doctor?

No. A Private Health Advisor has medical knowledge and extensive experience in healthcare, but is not a doctor or medical specialist. If medical expertise is needed, a Private Health Advisor can consult a medical expert or put the client in touch with a medical specialist.

Does a Private Health Advisor provide medical advice?

No. A Private Health Advisor is not a doctor and does not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. A Private Health Advisor works with the client to explore options, provides insight into the various possibilities, and guides the client in making choices that suit their personal situation. When medical expertise is needed, a Private Health Advisor can consult a medical expert or put the client in touch with a medical specialist. The client’s primary care provider remains responsible for medical evaluation and treatment.

Can a Private Health Advisor refer a patient to a healthcare provider?

No, a Private Health Advisor cannot issue a referral letter the way a primary care physician can. However, a Private Health Advisor can help identify appropriate healthcare facilities or providers and provide insight into the available options. If an official referral is required for care, this must be provided by a primary care physician or the treating physician, for example. A Private Health Advisor can, however, help the client prepare as thoroughly as possible for the consultation with a doctor.

Can Private Health Services assist with diagnostics?

No, Private Health Services does not make diagnoses itself. However, a Private Health Advisor can help determine which test is appropriate for the client’s needs and where the client can go to have it done.

Can I contact Private Health Services even if I don't have a specific healthcare need?

Yes. You don’t always need to have a specific health concern or complaint. You can also reach out to your Private Health Advisor if you want to take an active approach to your health—for example, with questions about lifestyle, prevention, or health screenings. Your Private Health Advisor will work with you to help you understand the options that best suit your situation.