Why Are More Dutch Residents Choosing Higher Health Insurance Deductibles?

Rising Health Insurance Costs in the Netherlands

More Dutch residents are opting for the highest possible deductible of 885 euros for their health insurance to reduce monthly premiums, according to data from price comparison platform Independer. This trend reflects a growing preference for cutting costs amid rising insurance rates, despite the financial risks for those who later require care.

Independer’s data shows that nearly 59 percent of people switching insurers this year chose an additional health insurance policy, compared to 70 percent at the end of 2020. Those who select the maximum deductible can save between 15 and 20 euros on their monthly premiums.

The mandatory minimum deductible in the Netherlands is 385 euros, which must be paid out-of-pocket for costs such as medications and emergency hospital care. By opting for the higher 885 euros deductible, individuals assume greater financial risk but benefit from lower monthly payments.

“People who choose the higher deductible typically expect to incur minimal healthcare costs,” said Mirjam Prins, a health insurance expert at Independer. “But if they do need care, for example after breaking a leg, they’ll have to pay the first 885 euros themselves. That’s a significant amount. We advise setting aside this money in a savings account.”

Supplemental insurance, including dental and physical therapy plans, is also becoming less popular. In 2019, 45 percent of policyholders opted for dental coverage, but this figure has fallen to 30 percent in 2023. Many are now choosing only basic insurance, as premiums for supplemental plans often exceed the cost of paying for treatments out of pocket.

Age and Gender Differences

Men are more likely than women to choose the maximum deductible, with 36 percent of men making this choice compared to 25 percent of women. The highest adoption rate is among those aged 35 to 44, where 39 percent opt for the 885 euros deductible. In contrast, only 16 percent of seniors over 65 choose this option, as they typically anticipate higher healthcare costs. Notably, 82 percent of seniors still purchase supplemental insurance, compared to just 27 percent of those aged 35 to 44.

Among younger adults (18 to 24), 73 percent opt for supplemental insurance, frequently for dental coverage, travel-related healthcare, and contraception.

The rising costs of basic health insurance are a major driver of these shifts. The average premium for basic coverage will exceed 158 euros per month next year, raising concerns from the Patients’ Federation Netherlands. Spokesperson Tijmen Hendriksen criticized the trend toward higher deductibles, noting that one in five Dutch residents now avoids seeking necessary care due to financial constraints.

“People delay care, skip medications, or avoid the dentist, which often leads to more severe health issues and higher costs later,” Hendriksen said. “We oppose the higher deductible. While it benefits healthy individuals, it undermines the solidarity of our healthcare system. Sick people don’t have the luxury of that choice.”

In 2023, approximately 1.3 million Dutch residents—7.4 percent of the population—switched health insurers. While 81.5 percent had supplemental insurance last year, that figure has declined steadily over the past four years.