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Netherlands: Treatment options

Leukaemia treatment in the Netherlands follows European and national guidelines and depends on the type, age and general health.

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, branching paths of light.
Figure 1.Treatment paths — Netherlands: Treatment options

01Short answer

Treatment may include chemotherapy, targeted drugs, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation and sometimes monitoring (“watch and wait” in CLL). The Dutch principle of “shared decision-making” (samen beslissen) matters: the doctor explains options, benefits and burdens, and you share your values. A clinical trial may also be an option.

02Simple explanation

The type guides treatment.

Shared decision: samen beslissen.

Monitoring is an option too.

03Scientific explanation

Guidelines: ESMO and national rules describe the order of treatment.

Research: HOVON trials test new approaches.

04What happens in the body?

Paths

Each type has its own treatment path.

Treatment

Much is given on the ward or in day care.

On a dark navy background, an infusion in a quiet room.
Figure 2.Treatment room — Netherlands: Treatment options

Decision

Talk openly about your goals.

On a dark navy background, a plan on a table.
Figure 3.Shared decision — Netherlands: Treatment options

05Shared decision

Four steps.

Understand the plan — What, why, how long.1Understand the planWhat, why, how long.
Goals — What matters to you.2GoalsWhat matters to you.
Trial — Ask about it.3TrialAsk about it.
Agreement — Together.4AgreementTogether.
ClarityThe plan is understood.
RespectYour values count.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
PathsEach type has its own treatment path.
TreatmentMuch is given on the ward or in day care.
DecisionTalk openly about your goals.

07Key terms

Samen beslissen
Shared decision-making.
Chemotherapie
Chemotherapy.
Doelgerichte therapie
Targeted therapy.
Afwachten
Monitoring.

08Key points

  • Ask about options.
  • Ask about benefits and burdens.
  • Share your values.
  • Ask for time to think.
  • Get the decision in writing.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I refuse treatment?

Yes, that is your right; discuss the consequences with your team.

Which treatment is best?

It depends on the type and your situation; only your team can say.

A second opinion?

Possible; see chapter “Netherlands: Second opinion”.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I refuse treatment?

  2. Which treatment is best?

  3. A second opinion?

My questions

12Sources

  1. HOVON (Dutch-Belgian Hemato-Oncology Foundation). Official website
  2. Kanker.nl (KWF, IKNL, NFK). Official website (in Dutch)
  3. Hematon. Patient organisation for blood cancer (in Dutch)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia—Patient Version
  5. ESMO. ESMO Patient Guides
  6. Government of the Netherlands. Standard health insurance
  7. Zorginstituut Nederland (National Health Care Institute). Official website
  8. ZorgkaartNederland. Find care providers (in Dutch)
  9. Hematologie Nederland. Official website (in Dutch)
  10. CBG-MEB (Medicines Evaluation Board). Official website
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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