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Netherlands: Patient rights

In the Netherlands, patient rights are mainly protected by the Medical Treatment Contracts Act (WGBO).

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a document and heart on a scale.
Figure 1.Consent — Netherlands: Patient rights

01Short answer

Under this law, treatment must be explained to you clearly, and your consent is needed for every treatment. You have the right to see your medical record and get a copy, to confidentiality and to a second opinion. If you are unhappy, talk to your team first; then the hospital’s complaints officer (klachtenfunctionaris) can help. Patiëntenfederatie Nederland gives more information.

02Simple explanation

Information: in clear language.

Consent: for every treatment.

Records: right to see them.

03Scientific explanation

Laws: the WGBO sets the rights and the Wkkgz the complaints procedure.

Privacy: medical data are also protected by EU data-protection rules.

04What happens in the body?

Consent

Once benefits and risks are explained, the decision is yours.

Records

Many hospitals show them in an online portal.

Records
Figure 2.Records — Netherlands: Patient rights

Complaints

The complaints officer is an independent mediator.

On a dark navy background, a path to a door.
Figure 3.Complaints path — Netherlands: Patient rights

05Your rights

Four steps.

Information — Ask.1InformationAsk.
Consent — Give or decline.2ConsentGive or decline.
Records — See them.3RecordsSee them.
Concern — Raise it.4ConcernRaise it.
RespectYour voice is heard.
ControlThe decision is yours.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ConsentOnce benefits and risks are explained, the decision is yours.
RecordsMany hospitals show them in an online portal.
ComplaintsThe complaints officer is an independent mediator.

07Key terms

WGBO
Treatment contracts act.
Toestemming
Consent.
Dossier
Medical record.
Klachtenfunctionaris
Complaints officer.

08Key points

  • Ask again if unclear.
  • Ask for an interpreter.
  • Check your records.
  • Raise worries early.
  • Bring someone close.

09Frequently asked questions

Is an interpreter free?

Rules can change; ask the hospital.

Who can see my data?

Only those involved in your care and people you allow.

Will a complaint affect my care?

No, complaining is your right.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is an interpreter free?

  2. Who can see my data?

  3. Will a complaint affect my care?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Patiëntenfederatie Nederland. Official website (in Dutch)
  2. Kanker.nl (KWF, IKNL, NFK). Official website (in Dutch)
  3. NFK (Dutch Federation of Cancer Patient Organisations). Official website (in Dutch)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Physical Activity and Cancer
  5. American Cancer Society. Seeking a Second Opinion
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Finding Cancer Care
  7. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Questions Are the Answer
  8. MedlinePlus. Flow cytometry
  9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Medical Tourism: Getting Medical Care in Another Country
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia — Patient Version
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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