Several Belgian doctors will proceed with a planned strike on 7 July after a decisive meeting failed to resolve their concerns.
A meeting at the office of Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke attended by representatives from the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (Riziv), health insurers, dentists, and doctors did not yield the desired outcome on Thursday.
The meeting was called for to address Vandenbroucke's reform plans for the sector, which impact fees and consultation models.
"We attended the consultation organised by Minister Vandenbroucke regarding the draft framework law," the Belgian Association of Medical Unions (BVAS) stated. "Earlier that day, participants received a revised draft via email. Although some union demands were addressed, the changes remain inadequate and difficult to implement."
The strike will therefore go ahead as planned.
"The issue is unresolved, making it impossible to rewrite the law before its first reading ahead of the parliamentary recess. Our strike call for Monday 7 July remains firm."
The impact of the strike varies. At UZ Brussel for example, less than 5% of doctors will participate in the call to action.
