When the wait is long
Wait too long for the hospital? Here are your options
A long waitlist doesn’t mean you just have to wait it out. There are several ways to be seen sooner — from comparing yourself to involving your health insurer. Here are your options.
Your options at a glance
- 1
Compare waiting times between hospitals
The wait for the same specialty varies widely per hospital — sometimes weeks or months. A clinic or hospital a bit further away is often much faster.
- 2
Request waitlist mediation
Your insurer finds a provider with a shorter wait, for free. It’s called wachtlijstbemiddeling and many people don’t know it exists.
- 3
Get a second opinion
Unsure about the diagnosis or treatment, or is it taking long? A second view from another doctor can bring clarity — and sometimes a faster alternative.
- 4
Know when your wait is really too long
The treeknorm is the maximum acceptable waiting time. If your wait exceeds it, you have a strong case to ask for action.
Compare the waiting times now
Start by comparing. See which hospital has the shortest wait per specialty:
Frequently asked questions
- Can I choose a hospital with a shorter wait myself?
- Yes. You’re free to choose which hospital or clinic treats you, as long as you have a referral. Do check whether the provider is contracted by your insurer.
- Does going to a hospital further away cost extra?
- Treatment is covered if the provider is contracted. Travel costs are usually your own; weigh that against how much sooner you can be seen.
- What’s fastest: comparing or waitlist mediation?
- Often both at once. Compare the waiting times yourself and call your insurer — the care advisor sometimes knows spots that aren’t publicly visible.
Read on
Long waiting time? Compare health insurance
A different insurer may offer shorter wait times or better coverage. Compare now and discover your options.
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