Amsterdam, Wednesday, 29 January 2025.Over 4 million Dutch residents face digital skill challenges in healthcare. Foundations Helpdesk Digitale Zorg and Digisterker collaborate to bridge this divide, improving access to digital services.
Digital Healthcare Revolution’s Impact
The healthcare sector is experiencing a significant digital transformation, with services ranging from online appointment scheduling to medical data management [1][3]. While these innovations promise enhanced accessibility, they have created unexpected barriers for a substantial portion of the population. The challenge affects people across all age groups, not just the elderly, with over 4 million Dutch residents struggling to navigate these digital healthcare services [1][3].
Collaborative Solution Through Education
Stichting Digisterker has developed the DigiVitaler teaching program, a comprehensive educational initiative available through libraries across the Netherlands [1]. This program employs a ‘learning by doing’ approach, helping patients master essential digital healthcare applications, including patient portals and health apps [1]. The initiative has already shown promising results, with Helpdesk Digitale Zorg successfully assisting over 700 clients and their relatives in 2024 with questions about digital care applications [2][4].
Practical Support and Implementation
The collaboration extends beyond education, with Helpdesk Digitale Zorg providing direct technical support to both patients and healthcare professionals [1]. A practical example of this implementation can be seen in the recent partnership with Libra Rehabilitation & Audiology, announced on January 27, 2025, which aims to streamline access to digital applications like Minddistrict [2][4]. The initiative is organizing accessible learning opportunities, including a Digital Care Theme Café scheduled for February 10, 2025, where residents can receive hands-on assistance with medical apps and e-health records [6].
Future Developments and Integration
The partnership is part of a broader movement toward digital healthcare integration in the Netherlands. Healthcare organizations are increasingly focusing on enhancing patient management through digital tools, allowing more time for actual healthcare provision [1]. This transformation is supported by initiatives like the Revalidatieregister, announced on January 15, 2025, which aims to improve rehabilitation care quality by making healthcare data more transparent [2][4].
