Study on the effectiveness of COVID-19 measures in the Netherlands The measures implemented in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 crisis were effective against the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This is the outcome of a study conducted by RIVM.
Growth of digital healthcare stabilised in 2023 The growth in the use of digital healthcare tools by care providers stabilised in 2023. This was mainly because most care providers were already using particular digital tools in 2022, such as the patient portal – on which patients can view the outcomes of examinations – and e-consultations (digital written contact with doctors).
Research into safe distance for battery energy storage systems One new development in the energy sector is the temporary storage of renewable energy. For example, energy can be stored in a community battery.
Key persons should be involved in policy for pandemics RIVM advises government authorities to involve ‘key persons’ in formulating policy for current and future pandemics. Results from RIVM research show that these individuals played a key role in ensuring an ongoing focus on social well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the limitations.
Public opinion: keep society open and continue providing healthcare during COVID-19 surge In the long-term approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dutch government is assigning a key role to civil society and private citizens. When asked what their priorities are in that context, the answer was to prevent delays in surgical interventions.
Use of e-health increases but not always effective 2021 saw an increase in the use of e-health in every part of the healthcare industry in comparison with 2019. There were several reasons for this, including the coronavirus pandemic.
Significant increase in support for and compliance with coronavirus measures Compliance with coronavirus measures such as working from home, distancing and testing if you have symptoms increased during the recent period of high infection rates and hospital admissions.
Wider availability of self-tests leads to higher willingness to test As of Friday 3 December, the recommendation in the Netherlands is to use a self-test in case of mild symptoms, as an alternative to a test by the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs). Beeld: ANP
Compliance with coronavirus measures requires attention Compliance with coronavirus measures such as working from home, distancing and testing if you have symptoms decreased in the weeks leading up to the Cabinet’s recent press conference.
More than health risks play a role in compliance with coronavirus measures The risk of COVID-19 is not the only factor that determines compliance with the coronavirus measures; other risks also play a role.