[Increasing healthcare costs in the Netherlands: the doctor's role]

The sharply increasing costs of healthcare in the Netherlands are a huge problem and pose a serious threat for the sustainability of care in this country. The question is whether all treatments really do add value. Many of the treatments now provided are not indicated, or are even contraindicated. Combating superfluous healthcare provision is an important solution for improving quality and reducing costs. This is the responsibility of all involved, with doctors playing a leading role. We propose an active role for the Royal Dutch Medical Association (KNMG) and all scientific associations.