‘Demedicalisering’ in de jeugdgezondheidszorg

The Dutch Youth Act (2015) has to resolve serious problems among young people, prevent inappropriate medicalisation, and realise efficiency. Participation and empowerment are terms often used. At the moment Dutch youth healthcare doctors monitor children on a regular basis and assess situations based on the national Public Health Status and Forecast Report (PHSF; VTV in Dutch) ‘health field’ context model. We discuss two children with behavioural problems at school and at home. Based on a detailed analysis and after excluding medical issues, in the first case the youth health care doctor advised participation in a sporting activity for those of limited financial means, and in the second case, the child was not referred for psychiatric consultation as simple adjustments at school were sufficient. The VTV ‘health field’ context model which Dutch youth health care doctors apply, links medical knowledge with the detection of non-medical issues. This expertise, combined with the knowledge of potential local intervention measures, can result in improved participation at home and at school. It is important that the family physician and other medical specialists recognise this expertise.

Conflict of interest: none declared. Financial support: none declared.