Netherlands' postnatal care crisis leaves vulnerable families behind

Postnatal maternity care hours in the Netherlands have steadily declined in recent years. The drop has been sharpest in Zuid-Limburg and Zeeland, where some families now receive over seven fewer hours than before. Meanwhile, vulnerable households in big cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam already get less support, with many falling below the recommended minimum. The reduction in care hours has affected all regions, but the situation is most severe in Zuid-Limburg and Zeeland. There, average hours have fallen by more than seven in some cases. Staff shortages in these areas have made the problem worse.

In contrast, large cities have seen a smaller decline, though vulnerable families there still receive less help. Official figures show 21% of these households get under 24 hours of care, compared to just 8% of non-vulnerable families. Zorginstituut Nederland has called for a more flexible approach, arguing that care should match each family's needs rather than follow a fixed schedule. The RIVM will investigate the issue further in 2023 to understand why certain groups receive less support.

The ongoing decline in postnatal care hours highlights regional disparities and staffing challenges. Vulnerable families, particularly in urban areas, continue to receive less than the recommended minimum. Further research in 2023 may provide clearer answers on the causes behind these differences.