This RIVM centre conducts research into healthy and unhealthy lifestyle choices, the health status of the Dutch population, and health system performance are used. The outcome of this research provides valuable information about the effects of preventive measures and health care services on public health. Building on epidemiological data, scientific literature, patient presentation information, and mathematical modelling techniques, the centre aims to gain a better understanding of the complex relationship between lifestyle, health services uptake, morbidity and mortality.

Tasks
The Centre for Prevention and Health Services Research: 

• collects and collates information about factors which may influence health, the causes of disease or disability, and the consequences in terms of health care requirements 

• uses modelling studies to examine the economic, social and health effects of current and planned policy measures 

• carries out research into unhealthy lifestyle factors such as lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol and poor diet 

• identifies avoidable burden of disease  

• provides a better understanding of the scope, continuity and quality of health care services.

Clients and partners
The centre conducts scientific research in association with various national institutes, including NIVEL, Statistics Netherlands (CBS), GGD-Nederland, the regional and local health departments, Prismant and universities. Its international partners include WHO, OECD and universities abroad.