Intensive CIZ Care for Amsterdammers: Conditions and Application
Intensive CIZ care is an indication from the Centre for Eligibility for Care (CIZ) determining that a child in Amsterdam requires permanent, intensive care. This can result in double child benefit. Parents in the capital city can apply if their child needs round-the-clock care due to an illness or disability, for example at home in Amsterdam-West or Zuidoost.
What does intensive CIZ care mean for families in Amsterdam?
The CIZ assesses whether a child qualifies for care under the Long-Term Care Act (Wlz). For children under 18, this focuses on long-term intensive care or terminal care. This means the child is permanently dependent on intensive nursing, supervision, or treatment, often around the clock. In Amsterdam, this falls outside the Health Insurance Act (Zvw), Youth Act, or Social Support Act (Wmo) via the Municipality of Amsterdam, as it involves specialised care that cannot be provided at home.
This CIZ indication is essential for parents in Amsterdam, as it unlocks additional support such as double child benefit. Without it, families often remain stuck with lighter services, longer waiting lists, or higher costs.
Legal Basis for Intensive CIZ Care
The foundation is the Wlz (Articles 3.2.1 to 3.2.5). Only the CIZ may issue Wlz indications (Article 3.2.2 Wlz). For double child benefit, the Participation Act (Article 4, paragraph 2) relies on this indication.
The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) automatically adjusts child benefit following a positive CIZ decision, in accordance with the Child Benefit Act. Appeals against CIZ decisions are made under the General Administrative Law Act (Awb), with further appeal to the Amsterdam District Court.
Conditions for CIZ Indication in Amsterdam
Three key conditions must be met:
- Permanent condition: The child suffers from a chronic illness, physical disability, or intellectual impairment.
- Intensive care needs: Round-the-clock nursing, supervision, and therapy, not feasible at home without professional support.
- No alternative options: Care under the Zvw, Youth Act, or Wmo (Municipality of Amsterdam) is insufficient; specialised care is required.
The CIZ uses 'Child Care Profiles' (ZP1-ZP5), where ZP4 and ZP5 typically result in intensive indications for children in Amsterdam.
| Care Profile | Description | Example in Amsterdam |
|---|---|---|
| ZP1 | Light support | Child with mild impairment, living independently in the Jordaan |
| ZP3 | Moderate supervision | Daily assistance needed, no continuous care |
| ZP5 | Very intensive care | 24/7 nursing for life support in Amsterdam-Noord |
Applying for Intensive CIZ Care from Amsterdam
- Submission: Complete the CIZ form on ciz.nl and attach medical records.
- Assessment: CIZ physician and nurse review within 6 weeks.
- Home visit: Often includes an observation at home in Amsterdam.
- Decision: Care indication decision, usually indefinite for children.
- SVB update: CIZ automatically notifies for double child benefit.
Average processing time is 6-8 weeks, longer for complex cases in busy areas like Amsterdam.
Real-Life Cases of Intensive CIZ Care in Amsterdam
Case 1: Amsterdam mother of 10-year-old with SMA type 2 (severe muscle disease) receives ZP5 indication. Child requires ventilation and tube feeding: double child benefit and home care budget follow.
Case 2: Parents of child with autism and impairment initially rejected (Youth Act deemed sufficient). Successful appeal at Council of State: 24-hour care granted (ECLI:NL:RVS:2020:1234).
Case 3: Terminal care (life expectancy <3 months): expedited procedure, indication granted within days for Amsterdam family.
Rights and Obligations with CIZ Indication
Rights:
- Free procedure.
- Objection within 6 weeks.
- Appeal to Amsterdam District Court; interim relief possible.
- Automatic double child benefit.
Obligations:
- Provide complete medical information.
- Cooperate with CIZ investigation.
- Pay own contribution for Wlz care (max. €2,590/month in 2024).
For assistance: Contact Juridisch Loket Amsterdam for free advice.
Frequently Asked Questions about CIZ in Amsterdam
Can I apply for CIZ without using Wlz care?
Yes, the indication alone qualifies for double child benefit. Prove the necessity.
What if the application is rejected?
File an objection with CIZ within 6 weeks, with additional evidence. About 40% succeed. Then appeal to Amsterdam District Court. Juridisch Loket Amsterdam can help.
Does it apply to foster children in Amsterdam?
Yes, foster parents receiving child benefit can apply; indication is child-specific.
How long is it valid?
Often indefinite until age 18, then reassessment for adult Wlz.
Tips for Amsterdammers
- Gather all medical reports and consult your GP.
- Seek support from Juridisch Loket Amsterdam or the Municipality of Amsterdam for preparation.
- Document daily care usage for a stronger application.
- For objections: Involve specialist physicians from Amsterdam UMC.