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By Amelia Stone | AMSTERDAM – 2025/09/23 07:04:41
Dutch health insurer DSW has announced its premium for the mandatory basic health insurance for 2026, offering an early indication of potential healthcare cost trends in the Netherlands.
The proclamation comes as many Dutch citizens are already grappling with the costs associated with mandatory basic insurance and income-related contributions for healthcare. These contributions, withheld by employers or collected by tax authorities, fund the national health insurance fund.
According to reports, a surplus in the health insurance fund from 2025 is being used to mitigate premium increases.Earlier reports indicated that the projected health insurance premium, as calculated by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, would see a modest increase from 156 to 159 euros per month.
DSWS ability to maintain stable premiums is also attributed to favorable investment results in 2024, allowing the insurer to utilize reserves to offset potential increases.
DSW’s Announcement Sets the Tone
“We see that about ten percent of our insured people leave a recipe or do not go to the hospital because they think: it costs me my deductible.”
As the first insurer to announce its premiums each year, DSW’s decision is closely watched as an indicator for other insurers.While other companies have until November 12th to announce their rates, DSW’s premium often serves as a benchmark.
Looking ahead, potential changes to the compulsory deductible in 2027 could substantially impact premiums. Some projections estimate an increase of around 200 euros per year if the deductible is halved. However, DSW chairman, De Groot, anticipates that this plan may be reconsidered following upcoming elections.
De Groot also addressed the impact of the current deductible (385 euros per year) on healthcare access. He acknowledged that it prevents some insured individuals from seeking necessary medical attention due to cost concerns.
Focus on Preventative Care
De groot advocates for a greater emphasis on preventative care, but notes a lack of decisive action from both politicians and healthcare organizations. He believes a shift away from self-interest is necessary to prioritize societal needs.
DSW is involved in regional programs that collaborate with municipalities and care providers to address local healthcare needs. However, De Groot notes that these initiatives are currently limited in scope.
He also pointed out systemic challenges,stating that only a small percentage of DSW’s budget is allocated to prevention. He argues that insurers who invest heavily in prevention risk being penalized by consumers seeking the lowest premiums.
De Groot proposes a structural overhaul where a leading health insurer takes responsibility for a specific region, with dedicated funding allocated to collaborative efforts between care offices, municipalities, care providers, and welfare organizations.
Frequently asked Questions
- What is basic health insurance in the Netherlands?
- basic health insurance (basisverzekering) is mandatory for all residents of the Netherlands and covers essential medical care.
- What is the ‘eigen risico’ or deductible?
- The ‘eigen risico’ is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for healthcare each year before your insurance coverage begins. In 2026, it is 385 euros.
- How are health insurance premiums determined in the Netherlands?
- Premiums are influenced by factors such as government regulations, healthcare costs, insurer investment performance, and reserve funds.
