adMar 27, 2026, 20:38

Care for tens of thousands of long COVID patients stops abruptly as minister pulls plug on support center

The Dutch Ministry of Health has decided to end funding for Q- and C-support, an organization providing aftercare for 35,000 patients suffering from long-term COVID-19 and Q-fever symptoms. Despite the center receiving dozens of new registrations each week, the abrupt closure will leave many patients without specialized support.

Politics Health Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Health Minister Hermans after SGP motion: Parties are attacking abortion rights, I will continue to defend them

Health Minister Sophie Hermans is facing criticism and a motion of disapproval from the SGP for refusing to stop an exploration into abortion procedures performed between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. Hermans maintains that the project is legal and necessary, despite the political fallout that threatens the SGP's support for the government's budget.

Cabinet wants to scrap tax deduction for uninsured medical expenses, Parliament impatient for alternative

The Dutch government intends to abolish tax deductions for non-insured medical expenses by 2028, a move that currently impacts 900,000 households. The House of Representatives has expressed significant frustration, demanding a concrete compensation plan for chronically ill and disabled citizens before supporting the measure.

Concerns over ending emergency care in Hoofddorp? Information evening draws few visitors

The Spaarne Gasthuis hospital plans to centralize 24-hour emergency care in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033, effectively closing the emergency department in Hoofddorp. Despite significant public and political backlash regarding travel times, a recent information evening in Hoofddorp drew very few attendees.

Anti-smoking foundation loses final ruling on 'cheating cigarettes'

The Dutch Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal has ruled against the anti-smoking organization Rookpreventie Jeugd regarding their request to change cigarette testing methods. The court determined that tobacco manufacturers are legally bound to use the established measurement standard, effectively dismissing claims about so-called cheat cigarettes. The foundation expressed disappointment, noting that the ruling avoids addressing the health risks associated with how filters affect smoke intake.

Veilig Thuis overwhelmed by reports of domestic violence and child abuse

The Dutch reporting center Veilig Thuis is overwhelmed by a significant surge in cases of domestic violence and child abuse, leading to dangerous delays in providing assistance. Experts are calling for legislative reforms and the establishment of unified local teams to simplify the current fragmented support system and ensure families receive timely help.