The difference between the Wlz long-term care scheme and the Zvw healthcare scheme

The Dutch Long-term Care Act (Wlz ) insures people for long-term care, for example if they need to go into a care institution . The costs for this type of care is paid for under the Wlz scheme.

The Dutch Health Insurance Act (Zvw ) insures people mostly for short-term healthcare, for example a visit to their GP or the hospital. These costs are paid for under the Zvw scheme.

Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is insured under the Zvw scheme. And if you are insured under the Zvw scheme, you must have basic Dutch health insurance. You are free to choose which Dutch health insurer you use. All Dutch health insurers offer basic Dutch health insurance.