Intestinal Failure care in the Netherlands
Where is care provided?
Children and adults with intestinal failure are treated in specialized university medical centers. These centers provide multidisciplinary expertise in intestinal rehabilitation and home parenteral nutrition.
Your GP or local hospital can refer you to one of these centers.
Psychological & Social Support
Living with intestinal failure can be challenging - support is available for both patients and parents:
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Hospital psychologist
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Social worker
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School support
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Guidance and counselling for parents
Ask your treating center which services are available locally.
Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN)
If your child needs home parenteral nutrition:
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HPN is covered by health insurance
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Equipment and supplies are arranged through healthcare providers
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Training is provided before discharge
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24/7 support line available
Your care team will guide you step-by-step before going home.
Costs and reimbursement
In the Netherlands:
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Medical specialist care is covered by mandatory health insurance
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HPN and related medical supplies are reimbursed
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Additional support may be funded through a personal budget (PGB), depending on the situation
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Some extra costs (e.g. travel) depend on your insurance policy
If you are unsure about coverage, ask:
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Your hospital social worker
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Your insurance provider
School and education
Most children with intestinal failure can attend school.
Support may include:
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Hospital school during admission
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Home teaching during recovery
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Support for reintegration into regular school
Patient organisations
Connecting with other families can be very helpful.
In the Netherlands you can contact a Facebook Group on Intestinal Failure.
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