Health

A historic June heatwave has pushed Dutch healthcare services into overdrive, generating a record volume of heat-related general practitioner visits that doubled last year's figures. The severe conditions led meteorologists to issue an unprecedented code red warning across multiple provinces as temperatures in Limburg reached a record-breaking 39.4°C. Public health agencies continue to urge the public to safeguard vulnerable neighbors and children as communities adapt to increasingly volatile summer spikes.

A landmark international study led by Catharina Hospital shows that giving extra chemotherapy before surgery for colorectal cancer metastases offers no survival benefit . The findings, published in The Lancet Oncology, scientifically validate the long‑standing Dutch cautious approach to chemotherapy in this patient group.

The National Heat Plan ended on Monday after being active for eleven days. During the period, the RIVM sent heat-related guidance to organisations and caregivers to help protect vulnerable groups. The institute also offered practical advice to limit health risks during hot weather.

Around half a million workers in Dutch nursing homes, care homes, home care, and youth health services are set to receive a 7.4 per cent pay rise over the next two years following a breakthrough collective labour agreement between trade unions and employers. Scheduled to take effect on 1 September subject to member approval, the country's largest employment deal will roll out the salary increase in four stages alongside a boost to commuting allowances. Both union and employer representatives have praised the comprehensive package, noting that it provides a crucial financial lift for the lowest-income groups while addressing vital workplace issues such as employee safety, workload management, and staff participation.

Albert Heijn will stop grocery deliveries nationwide from 3:00 PM on Friday due to the KNMI’s code red heat warning. The supermarket says employee safety comes first. Deliveries are expected to resume Saturday morning, while customers are asked to visit stores or reschedule orders.

Several parties in Parliament say the new women’s health plan lacks funding and concrete actions. While the ministry wants to improve recognition of women’s health issues without extra money, critics argue that real progress requires investment — and could save society billions.

The Green Deal Sustainable Healthcare ends this year, and three senior figures are urging the Dutch government to stay involved. They argue that continued political and financial support is needed to cut emissions and reduce waste in the healthcare sector. Their call follows WHO warnings that health systems must both adapt to climate change and reduce their own environmental impact.

Local authorities in the Netherlands are increasingly introducing heat plans to protect residents from hotter summers. While more municipalities are taking action, most still lack a plan. Organisations warn that vulnerable groups remain at risk without wider adoption.