The number of self-employed healthcare and nursing professionals in Belgium has more than doubled over the past decade. According to data from the Rijksinstituut voor Sociale Verzekeringen van Zelfstandigen (RSVZ), accessed by De Zondag, the growth is striking. As of 2025-08-17 13:50:00, there were 26,672 independent nurses working across the country, compared to just 10,324 ten years ago.
- Aantal zelfstandige verpleegkundigen verdubbeld in tien jaar
- RSVZ levert cijfers over zelfstandige zorgverleners
- Vorig jaar 26.672 zelfstandige verpleegkundigen geregistreerd
- Tien jaar geleden 10.324 zelfstandigen in zorgsector
- De Zondag kreeg inzage in RSVZ-data
This rapid increase in self-employed nurses highlights a significant shift in Belgium’s healthcare landscape. What factors are driving more professionals to choose self-employment in the nursing sector? And how might this trend affect patient care and healthcare services nationwide? These questions are essential as Belgium faces ongoing challenges in healthcare staffing and delivery.
Understanding this growth helps shed light on the evolving role of independent nurses in Belgium’s healthcare system and points to broader implications for the sector’s future.
Why are more nurses opting for self-employment? This trend may reflect greater flexibility and autonomy, but it also raises questions about regulation and support. Consider these key points:
- Increased demand for flexible healthcare services and home care
- Growing preference among nurses for independent work arrangements
- Potential challenges in maintaining consistent care standards
- Impact on healthcare workforce planning and policy development
Looking ahead, Belgium must adapt its healthcare policies to support self-employed nurses while ensuring patient care remains high-quality and accessible. How can the system best integrate these professionals for long-term sustainability?
