Acceptance of Supplementary Insurance in Delft
For residents of Delft, acceptance of supplementary insurance means that a health insurer approves your application for additional coverage. Unlike the basic health insurance, which must always be accepted, insurers have the freedom to refuse or impose restrictions on supplementary policies, such as a medical examination or exclusions for pre-existing conditions. This article for Delft residents explains what this entails, your legal rights, and practical tips, with attention to local resources like the Legal Aid Office Delft.
Legal Rules on Acceptance
The Health Insurance Act (Zvw) governs the acceptance of supplementary insurance. Article 11, paragraph 1 of the Zvw requires insurers to accept everyone for basic insurance, regardless of health status or age. For supplementary health insurances – whether individual or collective – no such obligation applies, as stipulated in Article 19 Zvw, which safeguards insurers' market freedom.
Additional guidelines come from the Insurance Code (CvdV) and Civil Code Book 7 (arts. 7:911 et seq. BW), which demand transparency and fairness. Insurers must disclose their criteria and explain decisions. Medical underwriting is permitted, but discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics is prohibited under the 2013 Amendment Act on Equal Treatment in Insurance. In Delft, the District Court of The Hague handles legal disputes.
Differences Between Basic and Supplementary Insurance
Here is an overview of the key differences:
| Aspect | Basic Insurance | Supplementary Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Obligation | Yes (art. 11 Zvw) | No |
| Medical Examination | Not permitted | Sometimes required |
| Refusal Possible | Only in case of fraud | Due to health, age, or risk |
| Exclusions | Not possible | For pre-existing conditions |
| Probation Period | Not applicable | Sometimes 30 days |
This table illustrates why acceptance of supplementary coverage can be more challenging for Delft residents.
Reasons for Rejecting an Application
Insurers assess risks. Typical grounds for rejection include:
- Chronic conditions: such as diabetes or heart disease.
- Age: stricter policies over 65.
- Prior healthcare costs: significant expenses in previous years.
- Incomplete information: undisclosed health issues.
Example from Delft: Mr. Jansen (55, resident of Delft) with rheumatism applies for dental coverage. After an examination, the insurer excludes orthodontics; he agrees and receives the policy with that condition.
Health Declaration and Examination
You complete a questionnaire with your application. If red flags appear, a medical exam follows. Supervisors like the ACM and CTR (Central Testing for Risk Selection) ensure reasonableness. The CTR prevents unfair practices through registration.
Rights for Delft Residents in Case of Rejection
If rejected, these options are available:
- Request reasons: Must be provided in writing (art. 7:941 BW).
- Complaints procedure: First with the insurer, then SKGZ.
- Alternative provider: Compare via online tools for supplementary health insurances.
- Seek help: Free advice from Legal Aid Office Delft or specialized lawyers; for proceedings, go to District Court of The Hague.
Be transparent: nondisclosure can lead to policy cancellation or premium recovery (art. 7:928 BW).
Real-Life Cases from the Region
Case 1: Young mother from Delft with asthma gets physiotherapy coverage with a premium surcharge.
Case 2: Retired resident of Delft with cancer in remission: rejected for hospital extras; basic coverage often suffices.
Case 3: Delft student with no issues: quickly accepted.
Acceptance depends on personal factors.
FAQs for Delft Residents
Can an insurer just refuse?
Yes, if motivated. Appeal via SKGZ or Legal Aid Office Delft.
Disclose pre-existing conditions?
Always; exclusion or no-claim period possible, nondisclosure risky.
Is an exam mandatory?
Not standard, but for high-risk coverages; CTR oversees.
Switching period (Dec 1-31)?
Often more lenient acceptance, but check terms.
Tips for a Successful Application in Delft
Boost your chances:
- Compare providers: Via Independer or Poliswijzer; check acceptance conditions.
- Complete fully: Be honest about health.
- Local advice: Start at Legal Aid Office Delft or Municipality of Delft for healthcare info.
- Consider collective: Via employer or TU Delft often easier.