Prior authorisation (machtiging)
Permission you need from your insurer in advance before certain care is covered.
For some care the insurer wants to assess in advance whether you are entitled to it, for example certain operations, expensive medical aids or treatment by a provider without a contract. Without prior authorisation the insurer may refuse to pay. Often your care provider applies for it on your behalf. The policy terms and the coverage overview (vergoedingenwijzer) say when you need one. If you switch insurer, check whether you need a new authorisation.
In Dutch: Machtiging