Netherlands faces sharp decline in postnatal care hours amid regional gaps

Postnatal care hours in the Netherlands have fallen sharply over the past five years. The steepest declines appear in regions like Zuid-Limburg and Zeeland, where some families now receive over seven fewer hours of support. Meanwhile, cities such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam report lower overall hours but a less dramatic reduction. The drop in kraamzorg has persisted year after year. In Zuid-Limburg and Zeeland, the average hours per family have sometimes fallen by more than seven. These same areas also face the most severe staff shortages, worsening access to care.

Data reveals inequalities in support. Vulnerable households are hit hardest, with 21% receiving fewer than 24 hours of care. For non-vulnerable families, that figure stands at just 8%. Zorginstituut Nederland has called for a shift in policy. Instead of fixed hours, they propose care tailored to each family's needs. The RIVM will investigate later this year why certain groups consistently receive less support.

The ongoing decline in postnatal care hours highlights regional and social disparities. Further research aims to uncover the reasons behind these gaps. Authorities are now considering flexible care models to address the uneven distribution of support.