Many NL residents lost their home care in coronavirus crisis

The Netherlands Patient Federation is worried about people who are dependent on help from district nurses and informal caregivers. A study by the federation showed that a third of these people now have less or no care due to the coronavirus crisis. According to the federation, patients weren't always consulted about the scaled down care, the Telegraaf reports.

This involves care like home counseling, wound care, washing and dressing, domestic help, psychological care, and day activities. The Patient Federation received reports of desperate people who can't cope any longer with the scaled down care. Informal caregivers are also less likely to visit - half of informal carers can give less or no support due ot the coronavirus.

Trade association Actiz told the Telegraaf that the home care that was scaled down involves activities that are not medically necessary. The home care sector is also dealing with a shortage of hands. "We sent more staff to coronavirus patients because they require extra attention and time. And do not forget the staff dropout due to illness."

Hans Bruijling of home care employers' organization Zorghthuisnl.nl told the newspaper that the Patient Federation's figures are probably correct. He said that care should always be scaled down carefully and in good consultation with everyone involved.