By allowing clients to prepare their intake digitally in advance, district nurses gain a quicker understanding of the support needs during the home visit. As a result, clients gain more control over their own care and the administrative burden decreases. VGZ is now sharing this approach with other healthcare organizations as an inspiring example of good, affordable, and future-proof care.

“Digitizing the nursing process can reduce the pressure on community nurses. Furthermore, the digital self-intake gives community nurses earlier insight into the support needs, allowing appropriate care to be provided more quickly,” says Marika Verbeek, Senior Innovation Manager at VGZ.

Research confirms effect
Research shows that the revamped intake actually makes a difference in practice. District nurses spend 60% less time on administration when starting care. In addition, the digital working method ensures a consistent and structured way of reporting. As a result, unwanted variation in practice decreases.

More room for the conversation with the client
In community nursing, appropriate care begins with a good conversation. Clients prepare for the intake digitally in advance. As a result, community nurses are able to get to that in-depth conversation sooner during the home visit. This yields an additional 37% time saving. At the same time, they gain a better understanding of what someone needs to continue living as independently as possible.

“Because district nurses spend less time on administration, capacity is freed up in district nursing and care remains accessible in a time of increasing demand,” says Chief Nursing Officer Wendy Doggen. “With this, TWB immediately freed up 5,5 FTEs. At the same time, professionals have more time for the client, which increases job satisfaction. In doing so, this working method contributes directly to our ambition to make healthcare future-proof and to be an attractive employer.”

Developing together for better care
TWB developed the digital intake and anamnesis together with Startzorg, in close collaboration with district nurses. As a result, this approach aligns well with the daily work of healthcare professionals as well as the needs of clients. By involving professionals from the outset, this innovation contributes not only to future-proof care but also to job satisfaction and attractive employer branding.

Want to know more?
View the implementation of this Good Practice on the VGZ website.