ROTTERDAM, 1 July 2025 – The municipality of Rotterdam has extended its partnership with health insurer VGZ for the continuation and expansion of the VGZ Rotterdampakket, a special health insurance policy aimed at residents with low incomes and high medical expenses. From 2026, the policy will include more preventive care measures and programmes focused on participation and wellbeing.
VGZ to remain Rotterdampakket administrator
VGZ will continue to administer the VGZ Rotterdampakket, a health insurance scheme designed to support financially vulnerable Rotterdam residents, particularly the elderly and those with chronic conditions. The package offers broad reimbursements and a reduced compulsory excess. Following a new procurement process, the municipality has renewed its contract with VGZ.
Additional services from 2026
From 1 January 2026, VGZ will expand its offerings within both the Rotterdampakket and the Compactpakket. These additions include increased reimbursements for occupational therapy, the inclusion of the Beweegplus exercise programme, and a stress management course. In 2027, a third package is expected to be introduced, aimed at aligning even more closely with the needs of financially vulnerable residents.
Alderman Ronald Buijt (Health, Elderly and Youth Care) welcomed the continuation of the cooperation. “VGZ has been a reliable partner for years, and the Rotterdampakket helps many residents avoid the stress and consequences of high healthcare costs,” he said.
Focus on accessible and predictable care
VGZ’s Chief Member Officer, Art Beuting, expressed confidence in the renewed partnership: “Many Rotterdam residents depend on accessible and affordable healthcare. In the new contract, we focus even more on preventing financial surprises. We want members to feel comfortable seeking dental care, knowing what to expect and which treatments are covered.”
VGZ and the municipality aim to keep access to healthcare as straightforward as possible, with the broader objective of reducing health disparities among the population.
Financial support with premium payments
The municipality will continue to contribute to the monthly premium of the Rotterdampakket. For recipients of social assistance, premiums can be deducted automatically to help avoid arrears. If arrears do occur, insured individuals will have up to six months before their policy is terminated – compared to the usual two months.
First introduced in 2012, the Rotterdampakket was expanded in 2019 with the Compactpakket. The collaboration between VGZ and the municipality will continue to focus on accessible care and promoting public health in Rotterdam.
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