FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you want to know, in one place.
Clear answers about consults, prescriptions, costs and medical quality.
Most asked
How does 247dermatologist work?
247dermatologist offers professional dermatological care, fully online and available 24/7. No waiting rooms, no months-long waiting lists and no need to take time off for an appointment.
The process in three steps:
Step 1: Upload your photos and describe your skin condition. Take at least three clear photos and give a short but complete description via the medical questionnaire. The app guides you step by step. Step 2: A BIG-registered dermatologist carefully assesses your photos and questionnaire. Step 3: You receive a diagnosis, treatment advice and, if needed, a prescription.
What does a consult at 247dermatologist cost?
247dermatologist offers three transparent packages, depending on how fast you want your answer:
247 standard (answer within 48 hours): €39 247 fast (answer within 24 hours): €59 247 urgent (answer within 12 hours): €79
What is included:
A full assessment by a BIG-registered dermatologist A diagnosis with a clear medical explanation A tailor-made treatment plan A prescription if needed (no extra cost) All communication via a secure, encrypted connection
No hidden costs, no subscriptions: you pay per consult.
How do I get a prescription?
If the dermatologist determines during the consult that medication is medically necessary, a prescription is issued.
How that works in practice:
The dermatologist makes a diagnosis based on your photos and medical questionnaire If needed, the dermatologist issues a prescription (included in the consult price) You can take the prescription to any pharmacy yourself. If you live in the Netherlands, the prescription can also be sent directly from the app to an online pharmacy, which delivers the medication to your home In the Netherlands, most medication is (partly) covered by health insurance, depending on your policy and deductible
Can I use 247dermatologist during a holiday or abroad?
Yes. 247dermatologist can also be used during holidays and travel.
Practical:
Available 24/7, also from other time zones No physical appointment needed Works worldwide with an internet connection; the app is available in 172 countries in the App Store and Google Play Prescriptions can be used within the EU (dispensing and conditions can differ per country)
Common holiday complaints: sunburn, insect bites, athlete's foot, blisters, skin rashes and allergic reactions.
Are my photos treated confidentially?
Yes. Only your dermatologist sees your photos. They are part of your medical record and fall under medical confidentiality. Our dermatologists are BIG-registered and bound by their professional code and by disciplinary law.
We work under the GDPR, the European privacy law. We keep your record for 20 years, as the WGBO requires. Your messages and images are stored encrypted on servers within the EU, in a secure environment that only you and your dermatologist can reach.
Your photos and medical data are never used for marketing, shared with third parties, sold or made public.
Consult and process
Is this covered by Dutch health insurance?
247dermatologist is a self-pay service. You choose how fast you want your answer: €39 for an answer within 48 hours, €59 within 24 hours, or €79 within 12 hours. The consultation is the same at every price point; the difference is speed. Consultations are not reimbursed under the Dutch basic insurance (basisverzekering), but they also leave your deductible untouched. Hospital dermatology via a GP referral is typically charged against your €385 deductible (eigen risico) first.
Can I use 247dermatologist from outside the Netherlands?
Yes. You can start a consultation from anywhere in the world; the consultation is in English or Dutch. If you receive a prescription, it is issued by a BIG-registered dermatologist in the Netherlands. Under European rules, a prescription from one EU country is recognised in every other EU country. The pharmacist applies the rules of the country where you collect your medicine, and your prescription lists the active substance so the pharmacist can identify the right product.
Do I need a referral?
No. You start a consultation directly, without a referral and without a waiting list. Upload your photos and a BIG-registered dermatologist will review your case.
How does 247dermatologist work?
247dermatologist offers professional dermatological care, fully online and available 24/7. No waiting rooms, no months-long waiting lists and no need to take time off for an appointment.
The process in three steps:
Step 1: Upload your photos and describe your skin condition. Take at least three clear photos and give a short but complete description via the medical questionnaire. The app guides you step by step. Step 2: A BIG-registered dermatologist carefully assesses your photos and questionnaire. Step 3: You receive a diagnosis, treatment advice and, if needed, a prescription.
What does a consult at 247dermatologist look like?
You register, upload photos with your phone and complete a short medical questionnaire. In it you can explain your skin problem in as much detail as you like. If the dermatologist needs more, they ask for extra information or photos via the app or email.
The dermatologist reviews your photos and your answers carefully. You then receive advice and, if it is medically necessary, a prescription.
As soon as your consult is completed, you get a push message in the app and an email.
We aim to write every assessment as clearly and completely as possible. If you still have questions afterwards, you add the follow-up module 'Unlimited questions' (€29). With it you can ask your dermatologist unlimited questions for up to 2 days after the assessment.
What exactly is 247dermatologist?
247dermatologist is an online dermatology platform that connects you directly with experienced, BIG-registered Dutch dermatologists. We offer professional diagnostics and treatment advice for virtually all skin problems, without months of waiting or visiting a practice in person. Our platform combines medical expertise with modern technology for fast, safe and accessible dermatological care.
Who is 247dermatologist for?
247dermatologist is suitable for anyone who:
Wants a fast answer to a skin problem Wants to avoid long waiting times at the GP or dermatologist Needs dermatological care outside regular office hours Suddenly develops a skin condition during a holiday or while travelling Prefers online care because of limited time or mobility Wants a second opinion from a specialised dermatologist Cannot or does not want to get a referral from a GP
We treat both adults and children (via parents or caregivers).
Why choose 247dermatologist?
You get an answer within 12 to 48 hours, depending on the package you choose. Everything happens online, 24 hours a day. Your consult is done by a BIG-registered dermatologist with years of experience. The price is fixed, with no hidden costs. Your data is protected under the GDPR, the European privacy law.
Do you treat all skin problems?
Yes. 247dermatologist treats the full spectrum of dermatological conditions. From common skin problems to more complex conditions: our BIG-registered dermatologists can assess your concern entirely online in about 95% of cases, based on photos and medical information.
Examples of complaints we often help with:
Acne and rosacea Eczema and allergic skin complaints Psoriasis Fungal, bacterial and viral infections Hair and scalp problems Nail problems Pigmentation disorders (such as melasma) Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) Assessment of skin spots (screening)
Only when physical examination, additional diagnostics or a specific treatment is necessary will the dermatologist say so and, where appropriate, advise on next steps or a referral.
Can the dermatologist assess my condition based on photos?
Yes. Dermatology is a field in which assessment based on images is highly reliable. In most cases the dermatologist can provide accurate, careful and medically sound advice using clear photos combined with your medical questionnaire.
Our BIG-registered dermatologists are trained in this daily and also assess many skin conditions visually in hospitals. If the information provided is not yet sufficient for a confident assessment, the dermatologist will specifically ask for additional photos or extra clarification.
If a digital assessment is not medically appropriate, the dermatologist will explain this and recommend an in-person appointment.
Can I ask the dermatologist questions?
If you have received an assessment and still have questions, you can add a follow-up module.
Follow-up module 'Unlimited questions' (€29), for up to 2 days after the assessment:
2 days of unlimited questions to your dermatologist The option to upload new photos (for example to show progress) Direct contact with the same dermatologist for continuity
For a completely new problem, or after a longer period, you can start a new consult. Your earlier medical history remains available to the dermatologist.
What do average waiting times in the Netherlands mean?
Access to (dermatological) care in the Netherlands is under pressure:
GP waiting time: on average 2-14 days for an appointment Dermatologist waiting time after referral: on average 5 weeks, sometimes rising to 4 to 5 months
247dermatologist offers:
247 urgent: an answer within 12 hours 247 fast: an answer within 24 hours 247 standard: an answer within 48 hours
Our dermatologists often respond within a few hours, especially during the day and on weekdays.
Is 247dermatologist available at weekends?
Yes. 247dermatologist is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. You can start a consultation, upload photos, complete the questionnaire and communicate with your dermatologist at any time. At weekends, you will also receive an answer from a BIG-registered dermatologist within the guaranteed response time.
Is 247dermatologist meant for emergencies?
No. Our fastest option gives you a dermatologist's answer within 12 hours. In a life-threatening situation, call 112. If you need a doctor today, call your GP or, outside office hours, the GP out-of-hours service.
Costs and reimbursement
What does a consult at 247dermatologist cost?
247dermatologist offers three transparent packages, depending on how fast you want your answer:
247 standard (answer within 48 hours): €39 247 fast (answer within 24 hours): €59 247 urgent (answer within 12 hours): €79
What is included:
A full assessment by a BIG-registered dermatologist A diagnosis with a clear medical explanation A tailor-made treatment plan A prescription if needed (no extra cost) All communication via a secure, encrypted connection
No hidden costs, no subscriptions: you pay per consult.
Is my consult reimbursed by health insurance?
You pay for your consult directly online. 247dermatologist is a private healthcare service and is not covered by the Dutch basic health insurance, and paying for a consult has no impact on your Dutch deductible.
Depending on your supplementary or international health coverage, you may be able to reclaim (part of) the cost. You always receive an invoice in the app, ready to submit to your insurer.
Please note: medication dispensed by a pharmacy in the Netherlands is in most cases (partly) covered by your health insurer, depending on your policy and remaining deductible. That reimbursement is handled between the pharmacy and your insurer.
With off-label use of medication, your insurer may not cover the cost, or only partly, in which case an (additional) payment can be required.
Can I get my money back?
Once the dermatologist has completed your consult and given a diagnosis or treatment advice, the consult has been delivered and we are generally unable to issue a refund.
We make an exception if we demonstrably could not deliver the service due to a technical failure on our side, or in case of an administrative error attributable to us. We are not responsible for the delivery, availability or processing of medication by external pharmacies.
If you are still not satisfied, email info@247dermatologist.com. We will then look for a suitable solution, for example an additional free consult. The full refund policy is available at 247dermatologist.com/en/refund-policy.
Is medication reimbursed?
Medication dispensed by a pharmacy in the Netherlands is usually (partly) covered by your health insurer, depending on your policy and remaining deductible. That reimbursement is handled between the pharmacy and your insurer.
Outside the Netherlands, you pay the pharmacy directly; whether you can reclaim the cost depends on your own insurer and country.
The consult at 247dermatologist itself is not covered by the Dutch basic health insurance, as it is private care.
Medication and prescriptions
How do I get a prescription?
If the dermatologist determines during the consult that medication is medically necessary, a prescription is issued.
How that works in practice:
The dermatologist makes a diagnosis based on your photos and medical questionnaire If needed, the dermatologist issues a prescription (included in the consult price) You can take the prescription to any pharmacy yourself. If you live in the Netherlands, the prescription can also be sent directly from the app to an online pharmacy, which delivers the medication to your home In the Netherlands, most medication is (partly) covered by health insurance, depending on your policy and deductible
Do you prescribe retinoic acid (tretinoin)?
Yes. Our dermatologists can prescribe retinoic acid (tretinoin) when this is medically responsible.
Tretinoin is used for, among other things:
acne clogged pores pigmentation disorders skin ageing
The dermatologist always assesses, based on your skin, complaints and medical history, whether this medication is suitable and safe for you. Medication is never prescribed automatically and always on medical grounds.
I want tretinoin/trifarotene for skin ageing. Is that possible?
Yes, that is possible. Tretinoin is regularly used for skin ageing, for example to improve:
fine lines skin texture pigmentation spots
This use often falls under off-label application. That means the medication is medically approved, but is used for this indication outside its official registration.
When a medicine is used off-label:
the dermatologist always assesses whether this is appropriate and safe for you periodic medical re-assessment may be needed insurance coverage may differ
The dermatologist discusses this with you carefully and draws up a suitable treatment advice.
Do you prescribe isotretinoin?
No. Prescribing isotretinoin requires a physical consult. Isotretinoin is a powerful medication for severe acne and requires personal contact, appropriate counselling and monitoring (for example check-ups and lab tests where needed).
What we can do:
Assess whether isotretinoin may be a suitable treatment option Advise on alternative treatments that are possible online Support you with a targeted referral for a physical consult if indicated
I would like to repeat my prescription. How do I do that?
If your prescription includes repeats, you can arrange a new dispensing via the same pharmacy where you previously submitted the prescription.
Repeat prescriptions are indicated by 'iter' on the prescription, for example:
1x iter = 1 repeat possible 2x iter = 2 repeats possible
No repeat (iter) on your prescription? Then a new consult is usually needed, so a doctor can assess whether repeating is medically responsible.
Why is a new consult sometimes needed for a repeat?
With (long-term) use of medication, periodic assessment by a doctor is important. This applies especially to medication used off-label, or where the treatment policy can change over time.
That is why we may ask for a (short) new consult with a repeat request: it is meant to re-assess safety, effect and side effects, and fits within professional and legal standards of care.
How long does it take for the pharmacy to process my prescription?
After the dermatologist sends the prescription, it usually takes 1 to 3 working days for a pharmacy to process it. The exact turnaround time depends on the pharmacy and the availability of the prescribed medication.
The pharmacy is a separate part of the Dutch healthcare system. This process works the same as for prescriptions issued by GPs or dermatologists in a physical practice.
The speed at which medication is delivered can vary and depends, among other things, on:
How busy the pharmacy is The urgency of the medication Any checks or orders the pharmacy needs to carry out
With an online pharmacy, you usually receive a confirmation as soon as the prescription has been processed, including information about the expected delivery.
What if my pharmacy has questions about the prescription?
Pharmacies can contact the prescribing doctor or our support team with questions. In practice it helps to have the prescription number, patient name and date of issue ready for the pharmacy.
If needed, we can provide additional clarification so the pharmacy can process the prescription correctly.
Abroad and travel
Can I use 247dermatologist during a holiday or abroad?
Yes. 247dermatologist can also be used during holidays and travel.
Practical:
Available 24/7, also from other time zones No physical appointment needed Works worldwide with an internet connection; the app is available in 172 countries in the App Store and Google Play Prescriptions can be used within the EU (dispensing and conditions can differ per country)
Common holiday complaints: sunburn, insect bites, athlete's foot, blisters, skin rashes and allergic reactions.
Can I use my prescription abroad?
Yes, within the EU. A prescription from our BIG-registered dermatologists is recognised in every EU country under European rules. This is laid down in the EU directive on cross-border healthcare (Directive 2011/24/EU) and Implementing Directive 2012/52/EU, which determine that pharmacies accept prescriptions from another EU member state.
How to use it:
Hand in the prescription at any pharmacy within the EU The pharmacist follows the rules of the country where you collect the medication; local limits may apply to quantity or dosage
Good to know:
The medication may have a different brand name abroad. The prescription states the active substance, so the pharmacist can identify the right product Some medications are not approved or available in every country; ask the pharmacist for an equivalent alternative Do you have a digital prescription? Bring a printed version. Cross-border e-prescriptions are not yet accepted everywhere
Outside the EU, prescriptions are often accepted in practice, but this depends on local legislation, pharmacy policy and the type of medication. We cannot guarantee this. If desired, we can send a verification or clarification email to the pharmacy, confirming that the prescription was issued by a BIG-registered Dutch dermatologist.
Can I use 247dermatologist without a BSN, for example as an expat or from abroad?
Yes. A BSN (Dutch citizen service number) is not needed to receive care via 247dermatologist. The app is available in 172 countries and our dermatologists also help expats and patients outside the Netherlands.
The BSN is only needed to have medication reimbursed in the Netherlands via a Dutch health insurer. Without a BSN you still receive a full assessment, treatment advice and, if needed, a prescription; you then pay for medication yourself at the pharmacy.
Quality, privacy and safety
Is online dermatological care as good as care in a hospital?
Yes. The medical quality of a consult is determined by the doctor and the guidelines, not by the location. All consults at 247dermatologist are carried out by BIG-registered dermatologists who also work in Dutch hospitals. They act according to the same professional standards, guidelines and legal obligations as in physical care.
In some respects, online care is organised even more strictly, because every assessment is fully recorded and traceable within fixed protocols.
Can a dermatologist make a reliable assessment without a physical examination?
Dermatology is a specialty in which visual assessment is central. In many cases, careful and reliable advice can be provided based on good photos and medical information. When a physical examination is needed to act in a medically responsible way, this is always explicitly indicated.
Do I receive a full medical diagnosis via an online consult?
When a digital assessment is medically responsible, you receive a full diagnosis and treatment advice, equivalent to physical care. If there is insufficient certainty, this is communicated transparently and you receive targeted advice for further physical assessment.
What about oversight, legislation and liability?
Online dermatological care falls under the same laws and regulations as hospital care. Our doctors are listed in the Dutch BIG register, the government register of licensed healthcare providers, and are subject to disciplinary law. The WGBO, the Dutch Medical Treatment Contracts Act, covers your rights as a patient and your medical record, medical confidentiality applies in full, and your data falls under the GDPR, the European privacy law.
Is my medical information as safe as in a hospital?
Yes. 247dermatologist meets all requirements for medical data processing. Data is stored securely, used exclusively for providing care, and falls under the same privacy legislation and retention periods as in physical care.
Are prescriptions from online consults accepted by pharmacies?
Prescriptions are issued by BIG-registered Dutch doctors and are generally accepted in the Netherlands and within the EU. The pharmacy remains, as always, responsible for verification and dispensing.
Is medication prescribed more quickly because it is online?
No. Medication is only prescribed when it is medically necessary and responsible. Online care changes nothing about the professional considerations a doctor has to make.
Is online dermatology only suitable for mild complaints?
Many skin problems, including more complex conditions, can be assessed well digitally. When physical care is needed, this is always indicated. Online care is used where it can be, physical care where it must be.
Does online dermatology replace physical care?
No. Online dermatology is an addition to the healthcare system. It makes specialist care more accessible and faster, while physical care remains available when medically necessary.
Why can't every treatment be done fully online?
Most skin problems can be assessed well based on photos and medical questions. In some situations, however, a physical examination is needed (for example palpation), additional diagnostics (such as a biopsy) or a treatment that can only be carried out physically.
In those cases, we advise follow-up in physical care and can support you with a targeted referral.
Why is periodic assessment important with long-term medication use?
Medication can cause side effects, its effectiveness can change, and the diagnosis or severity can shift over time.
That is why it is medically and legally important that a doctor periodically assesses whether continuing or repeating a treatment is safe and appropriate, especially with off-label use or medication with additional risks.
Where can I go with a complaint?
If you are not satisfied, email info@247dermatologist.com and we will look for a solution together. If we cannot resolve it, 247dermatologist has a complaints procedure with an independent complaints officer and a recognised disputes committee. You can find the full procedure on the complaints page.
How qualified are the dermatologists?
Our dermatologists are medical specialists. After completing medical school, they undertake at least five years of full-time specialist training in dermatology, including extensive clinical training, examination and final certification. They are listed in the Dutch BIG register, the government register of licensed healthcare providers, and are members of the NVDV, the Dutch Society for Dermatology and Venereology.
They work in academic and general hospitals, where they see complex skin problems daily. To keep their BIG registration they follow mandatory annual training and attend scientific conferences.
Together, our dermatologists have more than 150 years of combined clinical experience.
What is a medical specialist?
A medical specialist is a doctor who, after basic medical training, has completed a recognised and intensive further training programme and is fully dedicated to one field. Dermatologists specialise in all conditions of the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes, including skin cancer and complex systemic conditions with skin manifestations.
Dutch dermatology The Netherlands is internationally known as one of the leaders in dermatological education, research and guideline development. Dutch dermatologists work according to strictly evidence-based guidelines and are among the best in the field worldwide.
Are my photos treated confidentially?
Yes. Only your dermatologist sees your photos. They are part of your medical record and fall under medical confidentiality. Our dermatologists are BIG-registered and bound by their professional code and by disciplinary law.
We work under the GDPR, the European privacy law. We keep your record for 20 years, as the WGBO requires. Your messages and images are stored encrypted on servers within the EU, in a secure environment that only you and your dermatologist can reach.
Your photos and medical data are never used for marketing, shared with third parties, sold or made public.
Do I have to enter my BSN? And why is it needed?
A BSN (Dutch citizen service number) is not required to receive care via 247dermatologist. The BSN is only needed to have medication reimbursed in the Netherlands via a Dutch health insurer.
If you do enter your BSN, it is used exclusively for medical and legal purposes:
correctly establishing your identity as a patient linking your medical record in accordance with the WGBO prescribing medication safely and responsibly and preventing mix-ups enabling reimbursement of medication via the pharmacy and your health insurer
No BSN, for example as an expat or from abroad? Then you can simply start a consultation. You receive a full assessment and, if needed, a prescription; you then pay for medication yourself at the pharmacy.
Your BSN is stored securely and never used for commercial purposes.
Children and family
How do I start a consultation for my child?
As a parent or caregiver, you can request a consult for minor children. You must be at least 18 years old yourself and be a parent or legal guardian.
Step by step:
Register yourself in the app Tap 'Start consult' and select 'Consult for someone else' Enter your child's details (name, date of birth, BSN if applicable, etc.) Upload photos and describe the complaints You as the parent receive all communication
Common childhood conditions: eczema, nappy rash, impetigo, molluscum, acne (teenagers) and rashes with an unknown cause.
From what age can I start a consultation myself?
From the age of 16 you can start a consultation independently. This follows from the WGBO, which determines that young people from the age of 16 may make independent decisions about their medical treatment.
Are you younger than 16? Then a parent or caregiver starts the consult via the 'Consult for someone else' option in the app. This option also exists for anyone who wants to request a consult for someone else, for example a young child or family member.
My child has eczema, what can I do myself?
Eczema in children is common and usually treatable.
General advice:
Limit exposure to water and soap, as both can worsen eczema Bathing/showering: preferably short and not too often Apply a rich, neutral cream regularly Choose cotton clothing directly on the skin Prevent overheating from dressing too warmly
For a professional assessment and, if needed, prescription medication, you can always start a consultation.
App and practical
Where can I download the app?
Download the app for free via the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). The app is available in 172 countries.
Minimum requirements:
iOS: 14.0 or higher Android: 8.0 or higher An internet connection A camera for taking photos
You can also start a consultation via the website.
How do I take good photos for a consult?
For a good assessment, at least three photos are needed:
1 overview photo clearly showing the location on the body 1 close-up photo of the spot itself 1 extra close-up or photo from a different angle
Preferably use daylight, hold the camera steady and make sure the photo is sharp. You can upload a maximum of 10 photos per consult. More relevant photos can improve the advice.
Can I discuss multiple skin problems in one consult?
We assess one skin problem per consult. This is important to get a complete, careful and medically sound picture and to draw up a suitable treatment plan.
If you have several different skin problems, we ask you to start separate consults for them. That way the dermatologist can assess each problem separately and with sufficient attention.
If the same skin problem occurs in several places (for example the same rash in different locations), you can indicate this within one consult and upload photos of all affected areas.
What if uploading photos does not work?
Check whether the app has access to your camera and photo library and whether your internet connection is stable.
Still not working? Contact support; we are happy to help so your consult can go ahead.
Can I use 247dermatologist for hair loss?
Yes. Hair loss is a common reason for a consult. We assess different types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium and alopecia areata.
Depending on the findings, the dermatologist can discuss treatment options and refer you where needed.
Why do I still get acne as an adult?
Adult acne is common, especially in women. Possible causes include hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle factors, skincare, certain medication and genetic predisposition.
Can I use 247dermatologist for excessive sweating?
Yes. We regularly treat excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Based on your symptoms, the dermatologist can advise on suitable treatment options and next steps.
In your consult, describe as concretely as possible which body parts are affected, how often the symptoms occur and how they affect your daily life.
How can companies use 247dermatologist?
247dermatologist offers B2B partnerships for companies, for example as an employee benefit.
Benefits for employers:
Reduced absenteeism through faster access to care Cost-effective (fixed price or pay-per-use) Higher employee satisfaction Insights from anonymised statistics (no individual data)
Contact us via info@247dermatologist.com for more information.
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