A survey conducted by the National Healthcare Institute (Zorginstituut) has revealed that 70 percent of people in the Netherlands believe the Dutch healthcare system needs reform in order to ensure it continues to offer quality, accessible and affordable care.

Zorginstuut concerned about future of Dutch healthcare

The Dutch healthcare system is a source of pride for many in the Netherlands, consistently claiming top spots in various international healthcare rankings. However, a recent study conducted amongst 2.000 Dutch people has revealed that many believe there is room for change. 

Amongst the various issues tackled in the survey, the Zorginstituut looked at the severe staff shortages in numerous sectors - including healthcare - and the rising costs faced by both patients and healthcare providers. 

“If nothing changes, patients will no longer be able to count on good care in all cases in the near future,” says Zorginstituut chair Sjaak Wijma. “We have to think about what we find important in healthcare, make choices and stick to them.”

Most in the Netherlands support reshuffle of healthcare system

The Zorginstituut found that 70 percent of respondents believed healthcare in the Netherlands should be organised differently, while 60 percent felt that attention should be focused on preventing illnesses instead of treating them. This system, known as passende zorg (“appropriate care”), would involve policies such as lowering VAT on fruits and vegetables and introducing taxes on unhealthy foods. 

A significant proportion of those involved in the study also expressed concern about healthy citizens having to foot the bill for the unhealthy choices of others. Four out of 10 respondents said people who live an unhealthy lifestyle should have to pay more for health insurance.