Health Systems and Policy Monitor (HSPM)

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Updates

Changes in the benefits package under the Health Insurance Act

02 February 2026 | Country Update

In 2026, only limited changes are being introduced to the basic health insurance package in the Netherlands. The mandatory deductible will remain €385 per year, and the maximum out-of-pocket contribution for prescribed medicines exceeding the reference price (€250 per year) will remain the same as 2025.

Coverage for smoking cessation programmes has expanded from one to up to three attempts per year. In addition, it will no longer be counted towards the mandatory deductible when a GP asks a medical specialist for advice or for an exploratory consultation in mental health care. Physiotherapy for individuals with Bechterew’s disease has been included in the basic insurance package.

Authors
  • Madelon Kroneman
  • Judith de Jong
  • Iris van der Heide
Country
References
Rijksoverheid. Wat verandert er in het basispakket van de zorgverzekering in 2026? [ Changes in the basic benefit package in 2026], https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/zorgverzekering/vraag-en-antwoord/veranderingen-basispakket | Rijksoverheid.nl. Accessed 27 January 2026

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