A recent survey by the Dutch national statistics office, CBS, reveals that a significant portion of adults in the Netherlands are avoiding or delaying dental visits because of financial constraints. The survey, which examined perceived inequality in healthcare, indicates that nearly a quarter of adults have foregone dental care due to cost.

The financial burden disproportionately affects lower-income individuals. According to the survey, approximately 33% of people in the lowest income bracket reported avoiding dental visits, compared to only 15% in the highest income group.

While dental care is included in the basic health package for children under 18, adults must either purchase supplemental dental insurance or pay for treatment out-of-pocket. This creates a financial barrier for many, leading to delayed or avoided care.

Overall, 7% of respondents felt they had unequal access to quality healthcare compared to their peers. This sentiment was more pronounced among individuals with the lowest incomes, with twice as many reporting feelings of unequal access. These individuals also indicated that their family doctors did not take them seriously as often.

Despite these concerns, the survey found that the majority of adults in the Netherlands generally have positive experiences with their family doctors. Almost 80% reported being able to schedule appointments quickly, and 84% felt that their concerns were taken seriously during visits. There was a slight difference between genders, with men being somewhat less likely than women to report quick appointments and feeling heard by their doctors.