Patients in the Netherlands are finding it increasingly expensive to travel to hospitals, GP practices, and other healthcare providers. Rising fuel prices and high parking fees mean that people who need frequent care face mounting costs. The Dutch Patients’ Federation is urging healthcare providers to offer digital care more proactively and to think along with patients about reducing unnecessary travel.
Acting director Linda Daniels says that the responsibility should not lie with patients to request digital care. “Many appointments can perfectly well take place digitally, but patients often only get that option when they ask for it themselves”, she explains.
“It should actually be the other way around. If care can be done digitally, then it must be practively offered”. The director also encourages patients to speak up if they believe a digital appointment would be suitable.
Many patients already deal with deductibles, medical aids, medication expenses, and other co‑payments. For those who must visit their GP or hospital regularly, the financial burden quickly adds up. According to the Patients’ Federation, digital care could ease that pressure in many cases. Video consultations, telephone appointments, communication through patient portals, and home monitoring are all viable alternatives, yet many patients are never offered these options.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
