Dutch postnatal care shrinks in struggling regions despite legal guarantees

Postnatal care in the Netherlands is facing growing regional disparities, with staff shortages hitting hardest in South Limburg and Zeeland. While the legal entitlement to 24–80 hours of support remains unchanged, some families in these areas now receive significantly fewer hours than before. Over the past five years, the number of postnatal care hours has stayed the same across most of the country. Families typically receive 24 to 80 hours over eight to ten days, as guaranteed by law. But in South Limburg and Zeeland, the average has fallen by more than seven hours in some cases.

The decline has worsened steadily in recent years. Vulnerable households are particularly affected, with 21% receiving fewer than 24 hours—compared to just 8% of non-vulnerable families. The Dutch National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) plans further research this year to examine these inequalities. Zorginstituut Nederland, a national health advisory body, has called for a more flexible system. Instead of fixed hours, it argues that care should adapt to each family's specific needs.

The drop in postnatal care hours highlights regional pressures, especially where staff shortages are most severe. With RIVM set to investigate the issue, policymakers may reconsider how support is allocated to ensure fair access for all families.