Mandatory Acceptance of Basic Health Insurance for Delft Residents
In Delft, as across the rest of the Netherlands, the **mandatory acceptance rule** requires insurers to enroll all residents in the compulsory basic health insurance, regardless of health status, age, or risk profile. This principle of solidarity in healthcare ensures that Delft residents with health conditions remain insured and is a cornerstone of the **Dutch Health Insurance Act (Zorgverzekeringswet, Zvw)**. It applies to everyone living or working in Delft, guaranteeing equal access to essential care through local GPs and the Delft healthcare network.
What Does the Mandatory Acceptance Rule Entail?
The **mandatory acceptance of basic health insurance** legally obliges insurers to approve every application for the standard policy. Unlike private insurance, where risk factors may influence approval, insurers cannot reject applicants for the basic package—even with a medical history. As a Delft resident, you can easily secure basic coverage, which includes essential services such as GP consultations in Delft, regional hospital treatments, and prescription medications under the reimbursement system.
This system ensures universal healthcare access and prevents discrimination. Without this rule, insurers might only accept healthy individuals, leading to rising costs and exclusion of vulnerable Delft residents. The mandatory acceptance applies solely to the basic insurance; additional coverage may require stricter conditions, such as a health assessment.
Legal Framework
The mandatory acceptance rule is central to the **Dutch Health Insurance Act (Zvw)**, specifically under **Article 11 Zvw**. This provision requires insurers to accept applications for basic insurance without discrimination based on health, age, gender, or other factors. Exceptions are rare: refusal is only permitted if the applicant is already insured elsewhere or if the application is incomplete (e.g., missing ID).
**Article 12 Zvw** governs premiums: everyone pays the same rate with the same insurer, regardless of personal risk. The **Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM)** oversees compliance and can impose penalties. In 2023, the ACM addressed complaints about acceptance procedures, confirming that medical inquiries during basic insurance applications are prohibited. For Delft residents, the **Delft Legal Aid Office (Juridisch Loket Delft)** offers free guidance on these rules. For more on switching insurers, see our article on switching health insurers.
Practical Examples in Delft
Consider a 65-year-old Delft resident with diabetes seeking a more affordable insurer. Thanks to the mandatory acceptance rule, the new provider enrolls them without surcharges or exclusions for diabetes-related care. They pay the standard premium and can access local pharmacies in Delft.
Or a young adult with cystic fibrosis relocating to Delft for studies at TU Delft. The rule ensures immediate acceptance despite high healthcare needs. Insurers typically respond within 30 days, with possible retroactive coverage.
For newcomers—such as expats or refugees in Delft—the same applies. A Ukrainian refugee, after registering with the **Municipality of Delft**, can enroll in basic insurance without a health check and begin accessing care through Delft’s healthcare facilities.
Rights and Obligations
Your Rights as a Delft Resident
- Guaranteed acceptance: Every insurer must approve your basic insurance application.
- Standard premium: No surcharges due to health risks.
- Comprehensive basic coverage: Includes pre-existing conditions, accessible via Delft healthcare providers.
- Right to complaint resolution: In case of rejection, you can contact the **Delft Legal Aid Office, SKGZ, or The Hague District Court**.
Your Obligations
- Enroll in basic insurance within four months of moving to Delft; otherwise, you may face a penalty from the **Tax Authority**.
- Pay premiums on time; delays can lead to sanctions under the Zvw.
- Provide accurate information; misrepresentation may void coverage.
- Hold only one basic insurance policy; duplicate coverage is prohibited.
Summary of rights and obligations:
| Aspect | Rights | Obligations |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance | Always approved | Submit a correct application |
| Premium | Equal costs | Pay on time |
| Coverage | Full basic package | No overlap |
Frequently Asked Questions for Delft Residents
Can a health insurer reject my application for basic insurance?
No, **Article 11 Zvw** prohibits rejection based on personal grounds. Only administrative issues—such as incomplete documents—may lead to delays. Consult the **Delft Legal Aid Office** if problems arise.
Does the mandatory acceptance rule apply to supplementary insurance?
No, supplementary policies may require medical underwriting and exclude certain risks. The rule applies exclusively to basic insurance.
What if I’m already insured and want to switch in Delft?
Switching is always possible; the new insurer must accept you. Your old policy automatically ends on **January 1st**, provided you submit a timely application via the **Municipality of Delft’s registration system**.