Asylum and Migration
Hospitals propose solution for care staff shortages: 'They are top talents'

UMC Utrecht, Diakonessenhuis, and St. Antonius Ziekenhuis have launched a third joint training program to address care staff shortages by integrating status holders who previously worked in healthcare abroad but face language barriers. Twelve candidates were selected from 100 applicants for the intensive six-month course, which includes Dutch medical language training from level B1 to B2 and practical care instruction. Project manager Fokie Huizinga described the participants as high-performing individuals who bring positive energy despite the challenges of their refugee backgrounds. The free program requires a B1 language level, MBO-3 education, and a care background, with applications open until October 11 for a January 2027 start. Previous cohorts saw 65% of participants employed in hospital care or related social professions.
Ozetta summarises; the reporting is the newsroom's