Here’s a surprising twist in the world of healthcare: while most of us dread annual premium hikes, three out of four major health insurers are holding their ground in 2026, with one even taking a bold step to ease the burden on low-income individuals. But here's where it gets controversial—Menzis, one of the leading insurers, is piloting a program to eliminate the healthcare deductible for vulnerable populations in select regions. Could this be a game-changer, or is it a risky move that might backfire? Let’s dive in.
As of January 1, 2026, Menzis clients in specific areas of northern and eastern Netherlands—Groningen, Twente, Achterhoek, and Arnhem—will have access to a supplementary policy that covers their deductible at no extra cost. This initiative, funded by the government through the health insurance fund, aims to support those who struggle to afford healthcare. Municipalities will identify eligible residents, typically individuals already receiving assistance with minimum insurance or energy bills. Dirk Jan Sloots, vice-chair of Menzis’ board, explains, ‘Municipalities already know who’s vulnerable, so this targeted approach ensures help reaches those who need it most.’
But why now? This experiment comes amid heated political debates about reducing or eliminating the deductible altogether. Critics argue that such a move would skyrocket premiums for everyone, forcing financially vulnerable individuals to avoid necessary medical care. Menzis’ solution? A middle ground. By waiving the deductible for a specific group, they aim to alleviate financial barriers without burdening the entire system. Sloots adds, ‘It’s a cost-effective way to address the issue, preventing premiums from rising sharply.’
And this is the part most people miss—Menzis isn’t just acting out of altruism. They’re strategically positioning themselves as a leader in affordable healthcare while addressing a pressing societal issue. But will other insurers follow suit? Sloots hopes so, envisioning a nationwide scheme managed through municipalities. However, when approached by NOS, competitors remained tight-lipped about Menzis’ experiment.
Now, let’s talk premiums. For the first time in years, CZ, Menzis, and VGZ have frozen or slightly reduced their basic package rates. CZ’s Zorg-op-maat remains at €159.99, Menzis Basis at €156.25, and VGZ dropped theirs by over €3 to €154.25. Even smaller insurers like DSW and Stad Holland are holding steady. The lone exception? Zilveren Kruis, with a modest €3 increase to €159.25. Is this a sign of stability, or just a temporary reprieve?
The unexpected stability in premiums stems from a surplus in the health insurance fund, which covers roughly half of basic care costs. Thanks to a surge in wage taxes over the past year, the fund is flush with cash—a rare financial windfall. But here’s the question: Will this trend continue, or are we on borrowed time?
What do you think? Is Menzis’ deductible waiver a brilliant solution or a risky gamble? Should other insurers adopt this model, or is it too niche to scale? And how long can we expect premiums to remain stable? Share your thoughts below—let’s spark a conversation that could shape the future of healthcare affordability.
