Termijnzorg

Termijnzorg is a Dutch term used in the Netherlands to describe temporary or interim care services intended to bridge gaps in formal care during transitions or periods of increased need. It is a form of short-term care designed for people who require help after a hospital stay, during rehabilitation, or when ongoing care arrangements are temporarily insufficient.

The scope of termijnzorg can include home-based support such as personal and nursing care, domestic assistance, meal provision, and social activation; it can also involve day care or temporary residential arrangements. In addition, termijnzorg may offer respite support for informal carers and crisis interventions to stabilize a situation and prevent further deterioration. The exact mix of services is determined by the individual’s assessment and the intended duration of the care arrangement.

Organisation and funding are typically handled by municipalities, care providers, and health insurers, depending on the setting and duration. Access usually begins with an assessment by a healthcare professional, such as a district nurse or general practitioner, to determine need, risk, and appropriate interventions. The resulting care plan specifies a fixed period, target outcomes, and criteria for review or transition to longer-term care or discharge.

Purpose and goals of termijnzorg are to prevent unnecessary hospital or nursing home admissions, support recovery and rehabilitation, maintain or improve independence, and ensure safe transitions between care settings. Availability and terminology can vary by region, with some areas using alternative terms for comparable short-term arrangements.