Development of the Dutch Structure for Integrated Children's Palliative Care

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Palliative Care
• Healthcare Systems

Background:

• Children's palliative care (CPC) is a growing global focus, with knowledge sharing crucial for progress.
• The Netherlands has undertaken significant developments in CPC over the last 15 years.
• The Foundation for Children's Palliative Expertise (PAL) was instrumental in driving these advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the evolution and key developments of children's palliative care in the Netherlands.
• To detail the establishment and impact of national initiatives, specialized teams, and knowledge centers.
• To highlight progress in guidelines, care plans, and support systems for end-of-life dilemmas.

Main Methods:

• Description of the establishment and expansion of hospital-based CPC teams.
• Analysis of the development and integration of regional CPC networks.
• Overview of the creation of the Dutch Knowledge Centre for CPC and its collaborative efforts.

Main Results:

• Seven hospital-based CPC teams are now established, linked to children's university hospitals.
• Regional CPC networks, connecting various healthcare professionals and settings, cover national aspects.
• Key resources like an evidence-based guideline, individual care plan format, and a physician support center have been implemented.

Conclusions:

• The Netherlands has made substantial progress in structuring and enhancing children's palliative care.
• Collaborative networks and knowledge centers are vital for advancing CPC nationwide.
• Ongoing efforts aim to integrate CPC into standard Dutch healthcare insurance.