Access to quality care that is meaningful and affordable is paramount if people with long-term care needs are to lead their best possible life. Together with knowledge and policy partners, we develop innovative and practice-oriented knowledge through programs and projects. We are collaborative – connecting practice, research, education and policy through knowledge. As a national knowledge organisation, we carry out assignments at the request of the government. We also work for healthcare providers, insurers, municipalities and other organisations. We share this knowledge with those who need it and others who work with people that require long-term care.

• You can find a list of our main partners here.

Focus and direction

Vilans is responding to a number of developments and challenges that are being faced by the healthcare sector. Society consists of an increasing number of older people who continue to live independently at home longer. People with long-term care needs often have more complex problems that require a multidisciplinary approach that transcends different domains. This requires understanding what people need and find important. Healthcare costs are rising and demand is growing, while the shortage of healthcare personnel continues to increase. Organising differently and innovating are necessary to continue to guarantee and improve the quality of care. We are helping (care) organisations and professionals to modernise and improve long-term care with knowledge as an engine of innovation.

We focus on the following 3 areas within our programs and projects:

• Person-oriented work: offering meaningful care with people as the starting point, that means organised around the client. • Quality of care and effectiveness: offering care providers support with legislative compliance and regulations, working on the basis of quality standards and other factors. • Digital transformation: providing knowledge on technological possibilities in order to work smarter and more people-oriented so that more time is left for healthcare.

Healthcare in the Netherlands

The philosophy underpinning the Dutch healthcare system is based on providing accessible, affordable and quality care. The system has been shaped by a number of historical trends, developments and social conditions. The Dutch government has overall responsibility for setting healthcare priorities; introducing legislative changes when necessary; and monitoring access, quality and costs in the system. The municipalities are responsible for overseeing some healthcare services, including preventive screenings and outpatient long-term services. The Ministry of Health’s role is to safeguard the quality and cost of healthcare through policy rather than managing it directly.