The Dutch healthcare authority NZa has slashed the fees for visits to psychiatrists in connection with a driving licence application because of abuse, a spokesman said on Friday.

‘Some people were out again in five minutes and were then presented with a bill for €250,’ the spokesman said. ‘That was the official maximum fee… hardly anyone charged less.’

People who have lost their licence for drink-driving offences, for example, have to undergo a psychiatric examination to reapply. The assessment is not covered by health insurance.

The NZa has now reduced the fee to €78 for 15 minutes and €39 for every subsequent 15 minutes.

However, a large number of psychiatrists say the new fees do not cover the costs of preparation and writing up the interview and are refusing carry out the checks, news agency ANP reported.