Defence had to make significant budget cuts in 2011. The MGZ was also affected by this. For example, the size was reduced by 23%. At that time, the military medical service was already modest in size and had a limited budget. It was anticipated that the quality of care would suffer as a result.
The budget cut was achieved, but the restructuring that accompanied it did not yield the desired effect. It turned out that the capacity was not well aligned with the need. The quality itself was also a concern, especially that of the operational medical treatment and evacuation chain. There was a lack of an operational standard framework and a quality management system.
Opportunities for Recovery
The results and insights from the policy review help further improve the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of the MGZ. The path upward has now been found. The MGZ 2020 program has been completed. The Defence reports for 2022 and 2024 also offer opportunities for recovery and strengthening. It is clear that it will still take some time before the MGZ can simultaneously support the three main tasks of the armed forces.
“Defence is still recovering from the budget cuts,” writes Tuinman to the House. “The goal is that we contribute to the physical and mental component of the armed forces with a functioning operational healthcare system. This strengthens the trust of soldiers and civilians in the medical chain. In the event that something were to happen to you, you will be taken care of.” According to the Secretary of State, this contributes to the combat effectiveness of the armed forces.
Defence and the Audit Office conducted the policy review. Independent experts provided guidance. They mainly examined whether the policy over the period 2011-2021 was effective and efficient.