zorgverlener

Zorgverlener is a Dutch term used to denote a person or organization that delivers care or support to individuals in need of health, welfare, or social services. It is a broad, non-technical designation that encompasses both individual professionals and care institutions.

In practice, zorgverleners operate across sectors: primary care, hospital care, long-term care (both intramural and extramural), mental health care, rehabilitation, youth care, and home care. Examples include general practitioners, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, dentists, and pharmacists, as well as care organizations such as home-care agencies, nursing homes, clinics and hospitals.

Typical responsibilities of a zorgverlener include diagnosing and treating health problems, providing information and guidance, coordinating with other care providers, administering medications or therapies, and supporting clients in daily living. They are also responsible for accurate record-keeping, protecting privacy and confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and contributing to quality and safety improvements within their field.

Regulation and oversight vary by profession and setting. In general, providers are subject to professional codes, licensing or registration where applicable, and oversight by the relevant authorities. Care organizations may be contracted by health insurers or municipalities and must meet prescribed standards for safety, accessibility and quality.

The term emphasizes the provider side of care, contrasting with the care recipient (zorgvrager) and with financing or policy terms related to health insurance (zorgverzekeraar). It is widely used in policy documents, contracts and everyday practice to indicate who delivers care.