Dutch Government Enforces Open IT Systems for Healthcare
The Hague, Wednesday, 29 January 2025.
The Dutch government mandates open healthcare IT systems to improve data sharing and innovation, addressing closed-system issues impacting patient care.
Historic Push for Healthcare IT Transparency
In a significant move, the Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) advised the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) on January 28, 2025, to mandate openness in healthcare information systems [1][2]. This recommendation comes as a response to identified issues in the Dutch healthcare IT market, including economic power abuse and vendor lock-in situations that have hindered innovation and efficiency [8]. The initiative aligns with broader European efforts, as it follows just days after the European Union’s adoption of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) on January 21, 2025 [3].
Benefits and Implementation Goals
The mandate aims to accelerate the transition to more appropriate care while addressing critical societal challenges such as aging populations and labor market shortages [1]. By enforcing open standards, the initiative seeks to stimulate innovation in healthcare IT, leading to reduced administrative burdens and improved quality of care [1]. The proposed implementation would work through the Wegiz law (Wet elektronische gegevensuitwisseling in de zorg), which enables setting sector-wide requirements for IT system openness while maintaining strict information security protocols [1].
European Context and Data Protection
This Dutch initiative complements the broader European Health Data Space framework, which establishes common rules and standards for electronic health record systems across the EU [3]. The EHDS includes mandatory harmonized software components and cross-border infrastructures for both primary and secondary use of electronic health data [3]. Implementation will ensure compliance with existing data protection frameworks, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) [3].
Future Implementation and Market Impact
While specific implementation deadlines are yet to be announced [alert! ‘No specific implementation timeline provided’], the ACM emphasizes that well-functioning ICT markets in healthcare are essential for a sustainable health information system [1]. The recommendation for mandatory openness represents a significant shift in healthcare IT policy, aimed at breaking down existing barriers to innovation and improving healthcare delivery [8]. Healthcare providers and IT vendors will need to adapt their systems to meet these new requirements, fostering a more competitive and innovative healthcare IT landscape [1].