The status of colorectal cancer care in the Netherlands: past, present and future

Cancer is now the primary cause of death in the Netherlands, with colorectal cancer (CRC) being responsible for a significant portion of cancer incidence (14%) and mortality (11.8%) in men and women. An aging population and the possibility of national CRC screening, currently under discussion, will likely increase this burden. Despite switching in 2006 to obligatory subsidized private health insurance, health expenditure continues to rise, along with increased cancer and drug expenditures. Despite rising drug expenditures, new targeted biological treatments are available under centrally subsidized provisions. CRC treatment guidelines are available, published online, regularly updated, and monitored for quality purposes. There are concerns regarding waiting times for diagnosis and treatment, as well as projected staff shortages; however, various plans are in place to combat these issues. Overall, it appears that the Netherlands is aware of the oncology issues affecting CRC management, and is contemplating the optimal course of action for the future.