[18 years old: choose wisely! Provision of information about changing health insurance status]

From the age of 18, dental care is no longer covered by basic healthcare insurance [in the Netherlands]. Individuals can voluntarily take out additional insurance however. The aim of this study was to map out what information those nearly 18 years old receive about the changes in coverage of dental care (Part A) and what their preferences were concerning information on this topic (Part B). Part A consisted of desk research on the websites of 4 health insurers and government agencies, complemented with interviews with portfolio holders. Part B consisted of a questionnaire survey among 18-year-old secondary school pupils training for university and vocational students (n = 106).The websites of health insurers and government agencies contained some information, 2 health insurers sent information by post about dental insurance and 1 also got in touch by phone. The level of knowledge about the insurance system among 18-year-olds was low, information often did not seem to have been received and they did not look for information themselves. Secondary school pupils training for university preferred to receive written information, vocational students preferred to receive it orally. Conclusion: Information about the changing health insurance status is available but does not reach those nearly 18 years old effectively. Cooperation and clarity on the responsibilities regarding the provision of information is recommended.