Zorgniveaus

Zorgniveaus is a Dutch term that refers to levels of care need, used to describe the amount and intensity of support a person requires to maintain daily functioning and safety. The concept functions as a common reference point for care planning, delivery, and funding within the Dutch health and welfare system. In practice, zorgniveaus help determine which services are offered, how often they are provided, and by which professionals.

Determination is usually based on an intake or needs assessment conducted by trained professionals such as district nurses, care managers, or social workers. The assessment examines activities of daily living, medical conditions, cognitive functioning, mobility, living environment, and social support. The resulting zorgniveau communicates the expected level of support, which informs care plans, hours of care, and eligibility for certain services or packages.

Zorgniveaus are used in multiple contexts, including home care (thuiszorg), nursing and personal care, and residential care settings. They may also influence funding arrangements under public schemes and insurers. The exact number of levels, their labels, and the criteria differ by policy area and over time, and regional adaptations are common.

Critics note that assessment outcomes can be influenced by subjective judgments, resource constraints, and administrative processes. Periodic reassessments and clear appeals processes are usually provided to adjust a care plan when needs change.