You live in a reception centre and need medical aid
As an asylum seeker in Belgium, you are entitled to medical care and affordable healthcare. Where can you go? And what should you pay attention to?
Welcome to the medical service!
If you are staying in a reception centre for asylum seekers and you need a doctor or medicine, the first step is to make an appointment at the centre's medical service.
The medical service is there for you:
- if you need help with illness or after an accident
- if you need psychological help
- for a medical follow-up, e.g. if you have diabetes or are pregnant
- to refer you to a nearby doctor or hospital
- for your vaccinations and medicine
Medical record
The medical service will keep a medical record for you. This medical record contains all information about your health. You can ask for a copy of your medical record. The medical service will also explain how the healthcare system works in Belgium.
The medical service will pay your medical expenses. For certain medical expenses (hospital and pharmacy), Fedasil cooperates with the government health agency CAAMI-HZIV.
If you have a paid job under an employment contract, you can also join a health insurance fund of your choice.
An appointment at the medical service
The medical service is only open during opening hours. You must first make an appointment (date and time) before going to the medical service.
Also let us know if you need an interpreter during the medical consultation.
If you cannot attend your appointment, you should notify us as soon as possible. This way, we can help another resident.
A consultation at the medical service
During the consultation, the nurse will ask you questions and possibly examine you. Everything you say during a consultation at the medical service is confidential. The doctor and nurse have professional secrecy and do not share information without your consent.
After the consultation, the nurse will decide what is the best way to help you and whether you need medication.
The reception centre will also have a general practitioner (GP). The general practitioner (GP) will ask you questions, examine you and prescribe medication if necessary. A general practitioner (GP) has knowledge of all types of diseases.
The general practitioner (GP) or nurse at the reception centre may decide to refer you to a hospital or to a specialised doctor.