Patient education in Dutch hospitals

Studies among patients, nurses, and doctors in Dutch hospitals reveal the need for health education. Patients are dissatisfied with the information received and feel that nurses and doctors fail to meet their expectations regarding health education. More attention needs to be given to older, alienated, and low socioeconomic-status patients. The exclusive use of health-education media (like booklets and videotapes) is limited. It is recommended that hospitals and nursing departments pay greater attention to the in-service training of personnel, appoint specialized health educators, and organize efforts at ward level to create a positive climate for educating patients about various diseases. The policy of the Dutch government and the activities of private organizations (eg, patient movements, radio and TV broadcasts) support the development of patient education in Dutch hospitals.