Occupational health services in the Netherlands
Employers in the Netherlands have a legal responsibility to support employees during sickness absence and reintegration. Occupational health services play an important role in helping employers meet these obligations and support employees in returning to work.
A professional occupational health service provider can help reduce long-term absence, improve employee wellbeing and ensure compliance with Dutch employment legislation.
Need help managing employee sickness absence?
VMD Koster works closely with invita arbo, a specialist occupational health service provider that supports employers with absence management, reintegration and prevention. Visit invita arbo.
What are occupational health services?
Occupational health services, known in Dutch as arbodienstverlening, support employers and employees in matters related to health, sickness absence and sustainable employability.
These services typically include:
- sickness absence management;
- guidance during reintegration;
- occupational physician consultations;
- preventive health services;
- workplace health and safety support;
- compliance with Dutch absence legislation.
The goal is not only to manage sickness absence when it occurs, but also to help prevent avoidable absence wherever possible.
Occupational health obligations for Dutch employers
Under Dutch law, employers are required to actively support employees during periods of sickness absence. This includes following the rules of the Dutch Gatekeeper Improvement Act (Wet verbetering poortwachter).
Employers must work together with occupational health professionals to monitor recovery, create reintegration plans and document the steps taken throughout the absence process.
Failure to comply with these obligations can lead to sanctions from the Dutch Employee Insurance Agency (UWV).
Supporting employees throughout the absence process
Every sickness absence case is different. Some employees recover quickly, while others require longer-term support.
Effective absence management combines medical expertise with practical guidance for both employer and employee. Early intervention, clear communication and a structured approach often contribute to a more successful return to work.
Preventing absence before it occurs
Modern occupational health services focus not only on recovery, but also on prevention.
Examples include preventive consultations, health screenings, risk assessments and advice on creating a healthy working environment. By identifying potential issues early, employers can often reduce the risk of future absence.
Looking for occupational health services in the Netherlands?
VMD Koster works closely with invita arbo, a specialist occupational health service provider that supports employers with sickness absence management, reintegration, prevention and compliance with Dutch legislation.
If you would like to learn more about occupational health services and absence management, visit invita arbo.
Visit invita arbo