Dutch Wmo budget holders face aid accessibility issues

A recent monitoring report regarding access to medical aids through the Social Support Act (Wmo) indicates ongoing challenges for budget holders in the Netherlands. Findings show that individuals using a personal budget (pgb) report lower levels of accessibility compared to those receiving aids through contracted providers.

A significant issue identified is the lack of communication from municipalities; approximately two-thirds of respondents stated they were not informed about the option to purchase aids independently using a pgb. Only 16% reported being advised of this possibility, a figure consistent with monitoring from 2021/2022.

Financial constraints also persist, as only 30% of pgb users reported that their allocated budget was sufficient to purchase a suitable aid. Furthermore, 52% of respondents indicated they had to pay out of pocket to obtain the equipment they required.