Physiotherapy is not simply “covered” or “not covered” in the Netherlands. Coverage depends on age, diagnosis and the type/number of treatments. Many adults buy supplementary coverage for routine physiotherapy.

Adults

For adults, basic-package physiotherapy is limited to specific indications. For many conditions on the chronic list, reimbursement from the basic package starts from the 21st treatment, meaning the first 20 treatments are normally paid by the patient or supplementary insurance. Other specific conditions have their own rules.

Children

Children under 18 can receive up to 9 treatments from the basic package and, if needed, up to 9 additional treatments; qualifying chronic conditions can be covered more extensively.

Do you need a GP referral?

Usually no: Dutch physiotherapy has direct access. A referral can still matter for certain programmes/conditions or for reimbursement documentation, so check the rules that apply to your treatment.

Before booking

  • Check whether your condition is covered by the basic package.
  • Check whether your supplementary policy includes physiotherapy and how many treatments.
  • Check whether your insurer contracts the physiotherapist.
  • Ask the practice’s price if you will pay yourself; prices are not nationally fixed.