Medischspecialistische

Medisch-specialistische zorg is a category of health care in the Netherlands delivered by medical specialists who have completed a medical specialty training and are recognized as specialists. It covers diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical services that require advanced expertise and equipment, and is typically provided in hospitals or specialized clinics. This form of care differs from primary care provided by general practitioners and from other non-specialist services.

The scope of medisch-specialistische zorg is broad. It includes areas such as cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, ENT, dermatology, and radiology, as well as anesthesia and intensive care. Procedures often involve sophisticated diagnostics, complex operations, interventional treatments, and multidisciplinary care teams. Access to this care is usually through referral from a general practitioner for non-urgent cases, although certain emergencies and hospital-based pathways allow direct access in urgent situations. For many conditions, care is organized in subspecialty or centralized centers to ensure high expertise and volume.

Financing and organization are tied to the Dutch health system. Medisch-specialistische zorg is funded through the mandatory health insurance, with providers billing insurers under standardized arrangements. Hospitals and clinics are expected to follow national guidelines, quality standards, and care pathways to promote safety, effectiveness, and coordination with primary care. The governance of this care emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient-centered planning, and integration with other levels of care to achieve access and outcomes at a system level.

In summary, medisch-specialistische zorg encompasses the hospital-based expertise needed for complex and high-intensity medical conditions, delivered by trained specialists within a regulated health system.