The huisartsentekort is becoming increasingly urgent in parts of Belgium, especially in the Kempen region. According to the latest data from RIZIV, the national institute for health and disability insurance, 40% of Flemish municipalities face a shortage of general practitioners. This shortage is particularly severe in local areas, as reported on 2025-06-03 15:31:00.
- Huisartsentekort treft vooral de Kempen
- RIZIV meldt 40% Vlaamse gemeenten tekort
- Vorselaar heeft slechts 3 huisartsen voor 8000
- Patiënten wijken uit naar buurgemeenten vaak
- Veel huisartsen voeren patiëntenstop en overwerk
- Willebroek kampt met minder dan 6 huisartsen
In the Kempen, nine municipalities are struggling with too few huisartsen, forcing residents to travel to neighboring towns for medical care. This situation raises concerns about access to primary healthcare, with many doctors imposing patient stops due to overwhelming workloads.
What does this mean for patients in these regions, and how does the situation compare to other parts of Flanders? Let’s explore the key facts and implications.
Why is the shortage so pronounced in certain areas, and what challenges does it create?
- Ideal ratio is 10 huisartsen per 10,000 residents; some towns like Vorselaar have only 3 per 8,000 people.
- Nearby municipalities must absorb overflow patients, stretching resources thin.
- Doctors report high workloads, leading to patient intake freezes.
- Rivierenland fares slightly better but Willebroek still falls short with fewer than 6 huisartsen per 10,000 inhabitants.
Addressing the huisartsentekort requires coordinated efforts from policymakers and healthcare providers. Could increased incentives for doctors in underserved areas help? Only proactive measures will secure timely medical care for all Belgian communities in the years ahead.
