NMa will be further investigating the concentration between two northern Dutch hospitals

The planned concentration in the northern Dutch province of Friesland between hospital De Tjongerschans and Health Care Group Noorderbreedte could result in patients being severely restricted in their choice of hospitals in Friesland. The same applies to health care insurers, being buyers of health care services. The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) has therefore decided that this planned concentration requires a license.

For its assessment, the NMa consulted with the Dutch Healthcare Authority (NZa). The NZa supports the NMa's conclusion. The NZa does not rule out the possibility that the planned concentration may have adverse effects on accessibility, affordability and quality of general hospital care in Friesland.


As a result of this decision by the NMa, the hospitals are required to apply for a license for the planned concentration. If they do, the NMa will, after an investigation in the licensing phase, decide whether the concentration is allowed or not.