nrc.nl
Dutch Healthcare Reduces Reliance on Independent Contractors Due to Stricter Regulations
New regulations in the Netherlands targeting false self-employment have caused a 7% drop in the number of independent contractors (zzp'ers) in healthcare during Q2 2025, prompting organizations like Buurtzorg and the LUMC to adapt by creating internal flexible pools and improving employee terms.
- How have healthcare organizations, such as Buurtzorg and the LUMC, adapted to the reduction in the use of independent contractors (zzp'ers)?
- Buurtzorg, a home healthcare organization, eliminated the use of zzp'ers a year and a half ago, proactively addressing the new regulations. They achieved this by creating a pool of existing employees willing to work extra hours, including night shifts, previously covered by zzp'ers, demonstrating the possibility of replacing such workers with internal resources. This was supplemented by hiring an additional 1000 employees through a lateral entry program.
- What is the impact of the stricter regulations on false self-employment in the Dutch healthcare sector regarding the utilization of independent contractors?
- The Netherlands recently strengthened regulations to combat false self-employment among independent contractors (zzp'ers), leading many organizations to significantly reduce their use of such workers. This has resulted in a 7% decrease in the number of self-employed healthcare workers in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reversing a long-term growth trend. Enforcement of these regulations began this year, with penalties set to be levied starting next year.
- What are the long-term implications and potential challenges of eliminating the use of zzp'ers in Dutch healthcare, considering factors such as staffing shortages and employee preferences?
- The shift away from zzp'ers in healthcare is driven by stricter regulations and the high costs associated with independent contractors. However, the transition is not without challenges. Hospitals, such as the LUMC, are grappling with staffing shortages, especially in specialized areas like operating rooms, requiring creative scheduling and the utilization of internal flexible pools and temporary staffing agencies. The long-term success of this transition hinges on providing attractive employment terms that match the income, flexibility, and work-life balance that self-employment offers.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introduction frame the narrative around the successful adaptation of Buurtzorg and other organizations to the new regulations. This positive framing might downplay the challenges and difficulties experienced by other organizations in making the transition. The article also focuses heavily on the financial aspects, particularly the high cost of ZZP'ers, potentially overshadowing other important factors such as work-life balance and job satisfaction for both employees and ZZP'ers.
Language Bias
The article uses generally neutral language, although phrases like "kostbare zzp'ers" (expensive ZZP'ers) and the frequent use of the term "probleem" (problem) in relation to ZZP'ers subtly frame the issue negatively. More neutral alternatives might be 'highly paid ZZP'ers' or simply 'the use of ZZP'ers' and 'challenge' or 'issue' instead of 'problem'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the experiences of larger organizations like Buurtzorg and LUMC, potentially overlooking the challenges faced by smaller healthcare providers or those in more specialized areas. The perspectives of individual ZZP'ers beyond a few quoted examples are largely absent, limiting a full understanding of their experiences and motivations.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the situation, framing the choice as either employing ZZP'ers at high costs or transitioning to a fully employed workforce. It doesn't fully explore the possibility of a hybrid model or other nuanced approaches to managing staffing needs.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the shift away from using independent contractors (zzp