Health Insurer Switching Procedure
The health insurer switching procedure helps Delft residents switch health insurers easily. This legally mandated method ensures a smooth transition, with the new insurer handling the cancellation with the old one. The process is largely automatic and takes a few weeks if you take action in time during the correct period.
What does the switching procedure involve?
This procedure follows a standard set of steps for uninterrupted health coverage. For Delft residents, it is crucial to act during the switching period from November 1 to December 31, with coverage starting January 1. Outside this period, options are limited, such as collective contracts via TU Delft or special circumstances.
It prevents double premiums or interruptions in your insurance. Insurers are required to support this under the Netherlands Health Institute. This article builds on our overview of switching health insurers, with tips for Delft.
Legal Basis
The health insurer switching procedure is enshrined in the Health Insurance Act (Zvw), particularly Article 11 and the Health Insurance Decree (Article 3.1.1 et seq.). The 2010 amendment (Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2010, 533) standardized the process nationwide, including Delft.
Key rules:
- Confirmation within 30 days of application (Health Insurance Decree, Art. 3.1.3).
- The new insurer handles cancellation with the old one on the chosen date.
- If there are outstanding debts, the old insurer blocks the cancellation (Zvw, Art. 11(3)).
Step-by-Step Guide to Switching
- Select a new insurer: Compare via comparison sites or the Netherlands Health Institute. Check basic, supplementary, and dental coverage.
- Sign up for new policy: Complete the online form with your BSN and old policy number. Delft residents can seek advice from Juridisch Loket Delft.
- Confirmation and cancellation: Receive confirmation from the new insurer; cancellation follows within 7 working days. The old insurer sends confirmation.
- Handle outstanding premiums: Pay any amounts due to the old insurer within 1 month.
- Start new coverage: From January 1 (or agreed date). File transfer via Vecozo.
| Aspect | Basic Insurance | Supplementary Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation Period | Automatic via new insurer | Cancel yourself with old insurer |
| Switching Period | Nov 1 - Dec 31 | Year-round (with medical review) |
| Medical Underwriting | Not required | Sometimes required |
Practical Examples from Delft
Example 1: Smooth Switch
Ms. Jansen from Delft has a basic and supplementary policy with VGZ. On November 15, she chooses CZ; CZ handles the cancellation. Insured with CZ from January 1, with automatic transfer of her GP records.
Example 2: Outstanding Debt Issue
Mr. De Vries from Delft has €200 outstanding with De Friesland. When switching to Menzis, De Friesland blocks it. After payment, the switch proceeds; otherwise, double costs.
Example 3: Student Collective
A TU Delft student switches to a cost-effective collective. Possible until February 1, via the same procedure.
Rights and Obligations
Your Rights as a Delft Resident
- Free switch without medical underwriting for basic coverage.
- Retention of care consent declaration.
- Information on premiums and coverage.
- In case of issues: Complaint to SKGZ, dispute via Disputes Committee, or help from Juridisch Loket Delft. Of course, District Court of The Hague for legal proceedings.
Your Obligations
- Pay premiums and debts on time.
- Provide correct BSN and policy details.
- Cancel supplementary insurance yourself.
- Check confirmations within 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch outside November 1 - December 31 in Delft?
Yes, limited: collectives until February 1/September 1, or on moving. Basic insurance mainly in the period, but cancelling your current policy allows immediate new signup. Seek advice from Municipality of Delft or Juridisch Loket.
Problems with outstanding debt?
Old insurer refuses cancellation until paid. Resolve within 1 month to avoid double premiums.
Automatic file transfer?
Yes, via Vecozo. Check with your Delft healthcare provider.
Rejection of new application?
Basic insurance cannot be refused (Zvw Art. 11). Supplementary can require medical review. Try elsewhere or consult Juridisch Loket Delft.