Maternity Care: Who Qualifies and What You Get
New mothers in the Netherlands can receive professional home assistance for several days following childbirth.
Maternity Care, known locally as Kraamzorg, provides professional assistance in your home to support new mothers after they have given birth.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically intended for new mothers after childbirth. It is designed to provide essential support to those transitioning into motherhood and managing the needs of a newborn at home.
What you get
You receive professional assistance provided directly in your home for a period of 8 to 10 days. This service is designed to assist new mothers during the immediate weeks following birth, offering professional support within your own living environment.
What it costs you
While the service is part of the healthcare system, it is not entirely free. You will need to pay a small statutory personal contribution for every hour of care you receive. The specific amount of this contribution is set by regulation, so you should check with your provider regarding the exact cost.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that you cannot wait until after your baby is born to arrange this support. To ensure you have care ready when you need it, you must register for your maternity care early in your pregnancy. Proactive planning is essential to make sure the professional assistance is scheduled for your specific timeframe.
How to apply
- Contact your health insurer (Zorgverzekeraars) to discuss your coverage and requirements.
- Register for your maternity care during your pregnancy to ensure availability.
- Coordinate the specific dates and duration of your home assistance with your care provider.