What you need to know if you have a healthcare appointment and do not speak Dutch

Do you not yet speak Dutch well and have an appointment with the doctor, psychologist, midwife, dentist or at the hospital? Then the doctor can use an interpreter. This interpreter is free of charge for you. An interpreter allows you and the doctor to understand each other better.

Let them know that you need an interpreter when you make the appointment. You can also specify whether you would prefer a male or female interpreter. The doctor will then arrange the appointment with the interpreting service. At the time of the appointment, the doctor will call the interpreter. The interpreter will translate the conversation over the phone. In difficult situations or if problems arise, an interpreter may also be present during the consultation. The doctor will decide whether this is necessary. Some doctors do not wish to arrange an interpreter or do not know how to do so. In that case, you can refer them to the leaflet 'Zo schakelt u een tolk in' (how to arrange an interpreter)

You can also use the 'Anderetaalpasje' (other language card).

The card is intended for patients who cannot speak Dutch, such as refugees and migrant workers. Healthcare professionals also consider this important. It helps them understand more quickly what is required.

It is easy to use. Simply show the card to the healthcare professional. They will see that there is a language barrier and can arrange for a professional interpreter. This is free of charge for you.

You can also choose to bring an adult acquaintance or family member to translate.

Can you not manage to arrange an interpreter? Then you can always use a translation app as well.