Prevention in the insured package: a smart move?

The Dutch Public Health Status and Forecast report 2010 clearly shows that unhealthy behaviors is rather rule than the exception, and that promoting healthy behavior can yield many health benefits. Government and health care providers try to promote healthier behavior. Yet, people with (increased risk of) chronic conditions are not reached sufficient. Primary care, particularly GP's, can, together with the health insurance company, play a crucial role to encourage healthier behavior in these groups. Health promotion is until now mainly the domain of the government. It is performed by care-providing institutions and funded by national and local governments. However, GP's can form a good connection between the health insurance funded primary care and publicly funded health in public domain. For example, by offering lifestyle interventions to people at high risk for chronic diseases. Or by using financial incentives for all parties to stimulate successful collaboration or participation in lifestyle interventions. …