Dutch Health Insurance Costs to Rise in 2025: What You Need to Know
Rising healthcare premiums and policy changes may strain Groningen residents, highlighting the need for cost-saving strategies and local solutions.
Starting in 2025, health insurance premiums in the Netherlands will increase by an average of €11 per month, according to data from Zorgwijzer, a health insurance comparison platform. The new average monthly premium for basic insurance is expected to be €158.72, marking a notable rise in costs for Dutch households.
Premium Increases by Insurer
The four largest health insurers—Zilveren Kruis, CZ, VGZ, and Menzis—control 85% of the market and have announced varying premium increases. CZ policyholders will face the highest rise, averaging €15.53 more per month, while Zilveren Kruis premiums will increase by a relatively lower €9.62.
The price gap between the most expensive and cheapest basic policies will widen to €433 annually, highlighting the importance of comparing plans to avoid overpaying.
Policy Changes Impacting Consumers
Insurers are phasing out "restitution" policies, which allow unrestricted provider choice. Instead, consumers will have "combination" policies covering only 75–90% of costs at non-contracted providers. This change will most affect those needing psychiatric or community nursing care, who may face higher out-of-pocket expenses.
The government has raised healthcare allowances to offset rising costs. Single individuals can receive up to €130 per month, while families are eligible for €249. The annual deductible remains €385 but is set to be halved in 2027.
Steps to Save on Health Insurance
To manage rising costs, policyholders are encouraged to:
- Compare providers: Use tools like Zorgwijzer to identify the best value plans.
- Adjust deductibles: Opt for a higher deductible to lower monthly premiums if your annual healthcare costs are low.
- Reassess supplementary insurance: Decide if additional coverage is necessary or if paying out-of-pocket for certain services, like dental care, would save money.
The window to switch insurance providers runs until December 31, with any new plan starting automatically on January 1, 2025.
Future Implications for Groningen
For Groningen, the higher premiums and policy changes could place additional financial pressure on residents, particularly those requiring specialised care. As healthcare costs rise, community-driven solutions, such as collective insurance plans or localised healthcare support systems, may be necessary to maintain affordability and accessibility.