The main goal of this project is to foster sustained and structured cross-border health cooperation in our region. While several cross-border health projects have been previously implemented, they have been developed at different time
points with different goals, without been aligned to a common goal. This situation leads to obstacles in making visible cross-border health and to produce impact on the citizens’ health status in the Northern
DE-NL region. Thus, this project
aims at strengthening the border region by encouraging healthy citizens and a healthy workforce that keeps the economy of the region strong. To reach such goal, the Cross-border Institute of Healthcare Systems and Prevention (CBI)
will be an entity to connect and coordinate new cross-border health initiatives in the region systematically. Specific aims are:
1. To create a solid cross-border health network connecting health stakeholders (e.g., decision makers, health insurers, hospitals, researchers, healthcare staff and citizens) from both sides of the border strategically.
2. To regionally analyze both health systems performance, so that we can create a framework to ensure equal access to healthcare in the border.
3. To connect public health services from both sides of the border as a first step to enhance the resilience of the health system.
4. To develop public engagement activities in order to promote the transition from institutional to family and community-based care.
By the end of the project, we will have a solid cross-border health network with cross-border health initiatives connected, an overview on strengths and challenges in both health systems. We will provide evidence-based recommendations that
can be translated into health policy changes. We will have empowered citizens taking an active role in their own healthcare.
