Acceptance of Supplementary Insurance in Tilburg
For Tilburg residents, acceptance of supplementary health insurance means that an insurer approves your application for additional coverage. Unlike the mandatory basic insurance, where acceptance is always required, insurers can choose to refuse supplementary policies or impose restrictions, such as a medical check or exclusion of chronic conditions. This article for Tilburg residents explains how it works, your local rights, and practical tips, including help from the Juridisch Loket Tilburg.
Legal Rules on Acceptance
The acceptance rules are set out in the Health Insurance Act (Zvw). For basic insurance, there is an absolute acceptance obligation under Article 11, paragraph 1 Zvw: every application must be accepted, regardless of your health status or age. For supplementary insurance – whether individual or collective – this obligation does not apply, as stated in Article 19 Zvw, giving insurers market freedom.
Additional guidelines come from the Code for Insurance (CvdV) and Civil Code Book 7 (art. 7:911 et seq. BW), emphasizing transparency and fairness. Insurers must disclose their criteria in advance and explain refusals. Medical assessments are allowed, but discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, or other protected grounds is prohibited (Amendment Act on Equal Treatment in Insurance 2013).
Differences Between Basic and Supplementary Insurance
Here is an overview of the key differences:
| Aspect | Basic Insurance | Supplementary Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Obligation | Yes (art. 11 Zvw) | No |
| Medical Examination | Not Allowed | May Be Required |
| Refusal Possible | Only in Case of Fraud | Based on Health, Age, or Risk Profile |
| Exclusions | Not Possible | Yes, for Pre-existing Conditions |
| Trial Period | N/A | Sometimes 30 Days |
This table shows why acceptance of supplementary coverage can be more challenging for Tilburg residents.
Reasons for Rejecting Your Application
Insurers assess risks. Common grounds for rejection include:
- Chronic Conditions: such as diabetes or heart issues.
- Age: stricter from age 65.
- Prior Healthcare Costs: high expenses in the past.
- Incomplete Information: undisclosed health issues.
Tilburg Case Example: Mr. Jansen (55, resident of Reeshof, Tilburg) with rheumatism applies for dental coverage. The insurer requires an examination and excludes orthodontics. He agrees and receives the policy with that restriction.
Health Declaration and Examination
You complete a questionnaire with your application. If risks are identified, a medical examination follows. Oversight is provided by the ACM and CTR, which review examinations for necessity and prevent unfair practices through registration.
Rights for Tilburg Residents in Case of Rejection
If rejected, you have options:
- Request Reasons: demand a written explanation (art. 7:941 BW).
- File a Complaint: first with the insurer, then with SKGZ.
- Explore Alternatives: compare policies using online tools.
- Seek Assistance: free advice from Juridisch Loket Tilburg or litigate via the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant in Breda.
Be transparent: non-disclosure can lead to policy cancellation or premium recovery (art. 7:928 BW).
Tilburg Case Examples
Example 1: Young mother from Tilburg-Noord with asthma gets physiotherapy coverage with a premium surcharge.
Example 2: Retiree from the city center with cancer in remission: rejected for extra hospital coverage; basic often suffices.
Example 3: Student from Tilburg University: quick acceptance without examination.
Acceptance depends on your personal situation in Tilburg.
FAQs for Tilburg Residents
Can an insurer just refuse in Tilburg?
Yes, without an obligation, they can on risk grounds, provided they explain. Appeal via SKGZ or Juridisch Loket Tilburg.
With a pre-existing condition in Tilburg?
Exclusion or no-claim period possible. Disclose everything to avoid issues.
Is an examination mandatory?
Not always, but often for high coverage. CTR oversees.
During the switching period?
From December 1 to 31: more lenient, but check Tilburg-specific terms.
Tips for Tilburg Residents
Improve your chances:
- Compare Locally: Use Independer or Poliswijzer and check acceptance terms.
- Consult Juridisch Loket Tilburg: For personalized advice on your situation.
- Be Complete: Disclose all health issues.
- Choose Lenient Insurers: Ask about popular Tilburg options at the Municipality of Tilburg care desk.