Quit Smoking Helpline in Netherlands

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free quit-smoking helpline in the Netherlands?

Yes. The Stoplijn on 0800-1995 is a free national helpline run by the Trimbos-instituut on behalf of the Ministry of Health (VWS). Staff can talk you through planning your quit, dealing with cravings, choosing medication, and finding a coaching programme near you.

Source: ikstopnu.nl — Trimbos-instituut , Rijksoverheid — Hulp bij stoppen met roken

Is help to quit smoking free in the Netherlands?

Yes. Calls to 0800-1995 are free, and online materials at ikstopnu.nl are free. Dutch basic health insurance reimburses a full cessation programme (including telephone coaching, group training or online coaching) once per insured person per year, at 100% with no own-risk excess (eigen risico). Medications such as NRT, varenicline and bupropion are typically reimbursed when prescribed as part of the programme.

Source: ikstopnu.nl — Vergoeding stoppen met roken , Rijksoverheid — Hulp bij stoppen met roken

When can I call the Dutch Stoplijn?

The Stoplijn (0800-1995) is staffed Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00. Outside those hours callers hear recorded information. Online self-help and the route into a coaching programme are available 24/7 at ikstopnu.nl.

Source: ikstopnu.nl — Telefonische / online coaching

What languages does the Dutch Stoplijn support?

The Stoplijn and ikstopnu.nl operate in Dutch. Many local cessation programmes can arrange an interpreter, so mention this when you enrol. General practitioners (huisarts) are usually the entry point for non-Dutch speakers and can refer you to a coaching programme in your language area.

Source: ikstopnu.nl — Trimbos-instituut

Does Dutch insurance cover quit-smoking medication?

Yes, when prescribed as part of a certified cessation programme. The basic insurance (basisverzekering) covers nicotine replacement therapy, varenicline (Champix) and bupropion (Zyban) under those conditions, once per insured person per year, with no own-risk excess. Outside a programme, NRT bought over-the-counter is normally paid by the user.

Source: ikstopnu.nl — Vergoeding stoppen met roken