Dutch Digital Healthcare Could Save 22 Billion Euros Annually
Netherlands, Tuesday, 18 February 2025.
The Netherlands’ digital healthcare transformation has the potential to save up to 22 billion euros annually by enhancing access, affordability, and quality through effective technology implementation, according to McKinsey.
Current Implementation Challenges
Despite having proven digital healthcare technologies available, the Netherlands is struggling to implement and scale these solutions effectively [1]. OECD data reveals that the country lags behind its peers in digital healthcare policy and governance [4]. This underutilization is particularly evident in the decline of telehealth adoption, with general practitioner video consultations dropping from 52% in 2022 to 39% in 2023 [1].
Five Crucial Actions for Digital Revolution
McKinsey’s analysis identifies five fundamental actions necessary to transform the current digital healthcare evolution into a revolution [1][4]. These include adopting a patient-first and digital-first mindset, implementing large-scale use cases focused on productivity improvements, establishing federated data sharing with common architecture, creating appropriate financing mechanisms, and ensuring centralized decision-making with intensive collaboration [1]. The successful implementation of these actions could potentially reduce healthcare costs by approximately 20% of total healthcare expenditure [1].
Industry Collaboration and Recent Developments
Recent industry developments show promising steps toward digital transformation. On February 12, 2025, Enovation’s acquisition of Performation [7] demonstrates the private sector’s commitment to advancing digital healthcare solutions. This merger brings together over 500 employees across 16 offices in 18 countries [7], potentially accelerating the implementation of digital healthcare innovations. Meanwhile, Zorgverzekeraars Nederland has emphasized hybrid and digital care as a priority for maintaining sustainable and accessible healthcare [5].
Future Outlook and Implementation Challenges
The healthcare system faces mounting pressure, with growing concerns about workforce shortages and rising costs [1]. Without significant digital transformation, these challenges could become unmanageable [1]. The implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) standards and the Law on Electronic Data Exchange (Wegiz) represents important steps forward [1], though success will require unprecedented coordination between healthcare providers, insurers, and government bodies [4].