Dutch authorities investigate bankrupt medical chain Co-Med for possible fraud

Dutch prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into Co-Med, a bankrupt chain of general practitioner clinics, following allegations of fraudulent billing practices and regulatory violations, authorities confirmed.

The Dutch Healthcare Authority (NZa) referred the case to the Public Prosecution Service (OM) after uncovering possible criminal offenses. The Functional Public Prosecutor’s Office has since opened an inquiry. “Based on the information provided so far, we see sufficient grounds to proceed,” an OM spokesperson explained.

The NZa’s findings indicate that Co-Med systematically overbilled for patient consultations. The agency identified “a pattern of billing for extended consultations where shorter ones had actually taken place.” Additionally, the company allegedly declared extra consultations per day that did not occur.

The watchdog also determined that Co-Med’s business operations failed to meet regulatory standards. The investigation into the company began in 2022 and continued after its bankruptcy in July 2024.

This is not the first time Co-Med has faced regulatory scrutiny. Last year, the NZa found that the company had violated rules when acquiring medical practices. In some instances, Co-Med failed to notify authorities about its takeover plans, while in others, it completed acquisitions without obtaining prior approval.

Founded several years ago, Co-Med rapidly expanded by purchasing clinics across the Netherlands, particularly from retiring general practitioners struggling to find successors. The company had locations in major cities, including Amsterdam, The Hague, Eindhoven, Tilburg, and Zwolle.

However, persistent issues led to its downfall. Patients frequently complained about poor accessibility and staff shortages at Co-Med clinics. Amid mounting concerns over the “continuity of care,” health insurers terminated their contracts with the company, leading to its bankruptcy. At the time of its collapse, Co-Med’s clinics served approximately 45,500 registered patients. “This is a matter with significant societal impact, and we recognize its importance,” the OM spokesperson added.