Changing demographics, the increase of chronic diseases and a growing demand of health care services are causing a continuous pressure on health budgets. The health care system in the Netherlands is changing, pivoting towards a more societal approach – our so called ‘participatie’ (participation). The quest for sustainable care solutions is not addressing technology only. In Amsterdam, new multidisciplinary approaches are now being developed.

The challenge

Transitions in long term and mental care in the Netherlands started in 2015. These created major challenges for policy makers, care professionals and citizens. At the same time, opportunities to drive change through data research or by stimulating the people to come with their own solutions arose.

We believe that a collaboration between the people, the medical and the social care is key to achieve the changes aimed at by the healthcare system. The city of Amsterdam, with her typical urbanized open population and excellent sources of data to guide solutions, is an ideal place to develop and strengthen a multidisciplinary approach of health on a decentralized level.

The purpose of the project

The Neighborhood Based Approach is a training program that helps local health professionals to set the appropriate priorities in the local context. The program is based on population care coordination and trains professionals from various specialisms to work together with citizens. By combining various experiences and knowledge of the neighborhood with insights through available data, the team will be able to focus on the most relevant action points, specific for their own local community.

What is ahti’s role?

Ahti initiated the program, developed the content and liaised with the City of Amsterdam and the District of Zuid (South) to start this pilot. We offer our expertise in training & education as well as our data expertise to help the participants in the program work together to identify and address priorities in their own neighborhood. The program will result in a more efficient and effective tailor-made approach to sustainable health care solutions.

Summary

Name: Neighborhood Based Approach (Wijkbrede Aanpak)
Status of ahti’s role: active
Countries: the Netherlands
Client / Partner: City of Amsterdam and Stadsdeel Zuidoost
Funded by: City of Amsterdam
Publications: Approach, gebiedsplan Amsterdam Oud Zuid