PITCH: General Practice in the Netherlands - findings from an Erasmus+ exchange programme in Dutch primary care

Problem

The Netherlands and UK share many similarities in their primary care systems, yet have some key differences in how they are funded, delivered and organised. The Netherlands frequently features as a prime case study where primary care is well integrated, has good outcomes, and high workforce satisfaction. Finding areas and methods of how the Netherlands has succeeded may be of interest and benefit to general practice in the UK, particularly as British general practice is facing a number of pressing challenges.

Approach

I undertook a two week Erasmus+ exchange programme facilitated and funded by the RCGP. My stay included observation and discussions in general practice, pharmacy, practice nursing, out-of-hours GP, and at regional and local postgraduate GP training. Following this I summarised my findings into 3 key themes and discussions around them.

Findings

I identified the use of informatics, ways of working, and the primary care workforce and training as the key areas where the UK can learn from the organisation and delivery of general practice in the UK.

Consequences

There continues to be a debate in the UK about the role and scope of general practice. The organisation and delivery of primary care in the Netherlands offers some suggestions as to how the UK may decide to reform and develop primary care services as it evolves in response to increasing pressures.