Amphia Hospital in Breda, Netherlands, has launched “Beter Gezond” (Better Health), a new program designed to integrate lifestyle considerations into standard patient care, officials announced February 5, 2026. The initiative comes as Dutch healthcare faces increasing strain from an aging population, staffing shortages, and a rise in diseases linked to lifestyle factors.
The program aims to equip healthcare professionals with the tools and training to proactively discuss lifestyle choices with patients, recognizing the impact of daily habits on both the development and prevention of illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, memory problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer. “With Beter Gezond, healthcare professionals receive support to develop this conversation easier,” said Elma van den Bemd, program manager for Beter Gezond.
Research indicates patients appreciate these conversations, according to Janneke Hoogstad, a gynecologist and ambassador for Beter Gezond. “If you don’t talk about it, it seems as if it’s not important,” Hoogstad stated. “By naming it, you show that it matters and healthcare professionals can help patients live healthier and remain vital for longer.”
Beter Gezond will utilize a multi-faceted approach, beginning with e-learning modules for healthcare providers focused on lifestyle factors and motivational techniques. This will be followed by virtual reality (VR) training sessions where professionals can practice navigating sensitive conversations with simulated patients, addressing topics like stress, smoking, and nutrition. The program similarly includes “Beter Verwijs,” a digital referral platform allowing healthcare providers to easily connect patients with specialized support services, including lifestyle coaches, dietitians, physiotherapists, and mental health resources.
The initiative extends beyond the hospital walls. Restaurant De Markt, located within the Amphia hospital complex, is showcasing healthy eating options, demonstrating that nutritious food can be both varied and appealing. Juliëtte van Gorkum, Food & Beverage manager at the restaurant, emphasized the role of nutrition in recovery and well-being, stating that offering healthier choices makes it easier for patients, visitors, and staff to make conscious and enjoyable decisions.
Amphia’s adoption of Beter Gezond is part of a broader national trend, with the program supporting hospitals across the Netherlands in integrating lifestyle medicine into routine care. The program is positioned as a practical solution to address the growing pressures on the Dutch healthcare system, aiming for a more sustainable and future-proof model of care.
