The RIVM has investigated which developments will have the most impact on palliative care in 2050. These include aging, increasing staff shortages, digitalization, and other technological innovations in healthcare, as well as the growing diversity in society. Based on this, the RIVM described three possible scenarios in which either the community, the individual, or the professional is central.
The RIVM conducted this future exploration on behalf of the Ministry of VWS Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport) in collaboration with scientific experts and professionals from healthcare. The Ministry of VWS wants to work with stakeholders to develop a future vision for palliative care in the Netherlands. Palliative care encompasses all care and support for people with an incurable disease and their loved ones. The goal is to achieve the best possible quality of life for these individuals.
The Community at the Center
The scenarios are described from different perspectives. In the community at the center, the emphasis in 2050 is on looking after each other. For example, there are local caring communities where everyone contributes to the care of one another according to their ability. Technology is employed in this scenario if it helps provide better human care, for example through accessible home monitoring. The national government ensures a fair distribution of money and resources. Private parties, such as local entrepreneurs and small care providers, can also make a valuable contribution. In this case, adding social value is more important than making (more) profit.
The Individual at the Center
When the emphasis is on the individual, people in 2050 determine for themselves what is good for them, for example regarding treatment plans, end-of-life wishes, or what quality of life means to them. They also take the initiative themselves. New technologies, digitalization, and (self)monitoring are embraced, and the government limits itself to facilitating, primarily trusting in the self-sufficiency of the individual. Private parties are also given ample space.
The Professional at the Center
In the third and final scenario, the focus is on the quality of care. Prevention and care receive so much attention (in terms of money and effort) that the Netherlands has never been healthier. This allows people to often work longer. In the case of incurable diseases, the most appropriate palliative care is provided. In this scenario, the government has control over organizing care, with quality as a priority. The knowledge and expertise of professionals are crucial for this.
Making Choices for the Future
The scenarios make it clear that there are multiple perspectives on the future of palliative care. However, not all solutions are possible; choices need to be made. The scenarios provide guidelines for discussing the future of palliative care in the Netherlands.