Why does it sometimes take so long before I have someone on the phone?

We do our utmost to help you as soon as possible, but especially on weekends and holidays during the day it can be very busy. A conversation in which the triage nurse (doctor’s assistant or nurse) asks what exactly is going on, possibly gives an explanation and advice or will make an appointment, can sometimes take longer. It is therefore possible that all triage nurses are talking at the same time. If this is the case, you will be in the queue. In order to be able to serve you as quickly as possible, it is useful to have the following information at hand:

• your Citizen Service Number (BSN). This is on your ID (passport, identity card or driver’s license) and has 9 digits;
• date of birth, address and telephone number;
• the name of your GP.

On the phone, you may also be asked about:

• Your medical history (insofar as relevant to your request for help);
• medication you may be taking.

Only enter a 1 in life-threatening situations. You will then be redirected directly to the emergency line.