English-speaking optometrist in Nijmegen, Zwolle and Gorinchem

Looking for an eye examination in the Netherlands and want to discuss your eyes in English? At Novio Oogzorg you can talk to an English-speaking optometrist. We work in Nijmegen, Zwolle and Gorinchem, in close cooperation with your GP (huisarts). Many expats and international students find their way to us.

In short
  • Examination and explanation in English, as well as in Arabic or Turkish.
  • Nijmegen, Zwolle and Gorinchem, by appointment only.
  • An eye examination for a complaint is fully reimbursed, with no deduction from your deductible (eigen risico).
  • We work together with your GP and send them a report of the results.

Our examinations

You can have the following examinations with us in English:

Why an examination in English?

Describing your symptoms in a language you are comfortable with makes a real difference: when did it start, is it pain or burning, does your vision change during the day? These details matter for the right diagnosis. Afterwards you clearly understand what we found, what the next step is, and how to use any treatment.

What happens during the examination?

We start with a conversation about your symptoms, general health and medication. We then measure your visual acuity, examine the eyelids and the front of the eye with a slit lamp, measure eye pressure when needed, and assess the retina and optic nerve. Finally we explain the results in English and agree on the next step: advice, treatment, a follow-up appointment, or a referral to an ophthalmologist via your GP.

Optometrist or ophthalmologist?

In the Netherlands an optometrist is a university-of-applied-sciences trained eye care professional who examines the health of your eyes and how well they function. In many cases you do not need to go to a hospital. If an ophthalmologist is needed, we refer you via your GP. Read more about the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist.

Making an appointment

Call us on 085 225 23 69 and mention that you prefer English. We work together with GPs, and a referral from your GP is preferred. Please bring your ID, your health insurance card, a list of your medication and your glasses or contact lenses if you have them.

Our locations

By appointment only.

Nijmegen
Business centre BCG, Groenestraat 294 (report to reception)
Usually Friday
nijmegen@novio-oogzorg.nl
Location details
Zwolle
Huisartsencentrum Holtenbroek, Straussplein 5
Monday
zwolle@novio-oogzorg.nl
Location details
Gorinchem
Care centre De Colvenier, Colvenierstraat 1b
Friday and Saturday
gorinchem@novio-oogzorg.nl
Location details
Urgent? Sudden loss of vision, a curtain or shadow in your sight, a shower of new floaters with flashes, or a painful red eye: contact your GP straight away or, outside office hours, the out-of-hours GP service (huisartsenpost).

Frequently asked questions

Can the whole examination be in English?

Yes. Mention that you prefer English when you book, and we will plan you with an English-speaking optometrist.

Do I have to pay for the eye examination?

An eye examination for a complaint is fully reimbursed and does not count towards your deductible. The CBR driving licence test has a separate fee; see rates.

Do I need a referral?

We work together with GPs and prefer a referral via your GP. Call us and we will explain the steps.

Can I do the CBR eye test in English?

Yes, the driving licence eye test can be done with an English-speaking optometrist. The report itself is in Dutch, as it goes to the CBR.

I am an international student. Can I come to you?

Yes. Make sure you have Dutch health insurance and let us know when you book.