How the Belgian healthcare system works: joining a mutualité or ziekenfonds, choosing a GP, emergency numbers and hospitalisation insurance.
Belgium has a high-quality healthcare system, but it works differently from many other countries. You usually pay the doctor first and are then partly reimbursed. Here is how it fits together.
To be reimbursed, you must join a health insurance fund, called a mutualité in French and a ziekenfonds in Dutch. Reimbursement rates are set nationally through INAMI / RIZIV, the national institute for health and disability insurance.
Several funds exist. Their basic cover is the same, but they differ in their extra benefits, customer service and optional products. Compare them before choosing.
What you will usually need to join:
In Belgium, your general practitioner is your first point of contact. Ask them to open your Global Medical File (DMG in French, GMD in Dutch). It centralises your medical information and lowers the amount you pay for GP consultations.
1000Click tip: choose a GP near home or work as soon as you arrive, rather than waiting until you are ill.
| Situation | Number |
|---|---|
| Life-threatening emergency (ambulance, fire) | 112 |
| On-call GP outside surgery hours | 1733 |
For serious emergencies, go to a hospital emergency department or call 112. For less urgent problems at night or at weekends, call 1733 to reach the on-call doctor.
Statutory insurance reimburses part of hospital costs, but the remainder can be significant, especially in a single room. That is why many people take out hospitalisation insurance as a complement, via their fund, their employer or a private insurer. Check what the policy covers and whether there is an excess.
Pharmacies are easy to recognise by their green cross. Part of the cost of prescribed medicines is reimbursed, depending on the product.
1000Click tip: keep your identity card with you at the doctor's and pharmacy — it is often used to link care to your insurance record.
Looking for a practitioner, a pharmacy or a care service nearby? Search the professional directory on 1000Click.
