Organizations such as the Dutch Mental Health Service and many experts are very concerned about the cuts approved by the Schoof government in the field of prevention. They warn that these cuts will severely harm public health. she Appeal to the government To continue the transition from care to health and continue working towards a healthy generation in 2040, rather than reducing financial resources.
The call is an initiative of GGD GHOR Netherlands, the KNMG medical association, the Dutch Federation of University Medical Centers (NFU) and Generation Health.
The disease costs the Netherlands billions
Although the government says prevention is important, there are already significant reductions. For example, 10% of SPUK funds (funds for special municipal projects) and €230 million of one-time funds will be reduced. The VAT on sport will also increase, and up to €300 million less will be invested in public health annually.
Meanwhile, our health is not doing well. We’re living longer, but we’re also getting sick longer. The differences between high- and low-income people are large. The disease costs the Netherlands tens of billions of euros annually, puts pressure on health care and reduces labor productivity.
Improving mental health reduces health disparities
Improving mental health can save a lot of money. If the mental health of 1 million people improves slightly, we will save €145 million a year, according to RIVM calculations. This can also help reduce health differences between groups of people. Ruth Bytom, head of the Dutch Mental Health Service: “People on low incomes have more than three times as many psychological complaints as people on high incomes. So there is work to do: help prevent misery by providing the right support or care at the right time, Thus reducing waiting times in mental health care.
Wipe with the tap open
Andre Rouvoet, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GGD GHOR Netherlands: “The savings that the cuts seem to bring in the short term do not nearly outweigh the higher healthcare costs and the social and economic costs that this will cause in the near future. If we no longer invest in our health, we will continue to mop with the tap open.” “.
Appeal to the Council of Ministers
More than 100 organizations and experts are calling on the government to reverse the announced cuts and truly invest in the health of the Netherlands. Ruvit: “We support the Secretary of State’s intention to develop an integrated prevention plan, as adequate financial resources are crucial. We will be happy to discuss this with the Secretary of State. So that the Netherlands becomes healthier, more resilient and more prosperous.”
