Choosing a doctor

In Belgium you are free to choose any doctor. To find a doctor in your neighbourhood, visit the website www.mgbru.be. Most consulates and embassies keep a list of doctors and dentists who speak that country’s language. The volunteer-run Community Help Service Helpline (tel: 02 648 40 14; www.chsbelgium.org) can provide details of English-speaking doctors and dentists in Brussels. There are several medical centres in Brussels with various general practitioners and specialists located in the same building.

Doctors

Doctors can be registered as “conventionné” or “non-conventionné”. The former apply prices that are close to the amount which the insurance association will reimburse, whereas the latter are free to set their own fees. It is worth asking in advance about prices when you have your first consultation.

The doctor will give you a green certificate of treatment after the consultation. This has to be sent to the insurance association for reimbursement.

Emergency services

Most doctors have consulting hours between Monday morning and Friday evening, usually by appointment. Weekend emergency services are provided by hospitals and clinics, as well as and general practitioners for home visits. You can find a list of night doctors listed by municipality on the website www.famgb.be.