WLZ Assessment by CIZ in Amsterdam: Application and Procedure
For residents of Amsterdam, a **WLZ assessment** is a crucial evaluation by the Centrum Indicatiestelling Zorg (CIZ) determining eligibility for long-term care under the Long-Term Care Act (WLZ). This is particularly relevant for Amsterdammers with chronic conditions or disabilities requiring continuous, intensive care. The CIZ assesses the need for 24/7 care and advises on the scope and duration of support, often in collaboration with local care providers across the city.
What Does a WLZ Assessment Mean for Amsterdammers?
The Long-Term Care Act (WLZ) provides care for Amsterdam residents who are permanently dependent on intensive 24-hour support, such as those with dementia, severe physical disabilities, or mental health challenges. A WLZ assessment grants official approval for this care, funded by the government through your health insurer. Without this assessment, residents in Amsterdam cannot access WLZ services, such as admission to a local nursing home or personal home care in neighborhoods like the Jordaan or Oost.
The CIZ, as an independent body, processes the assessment and reviews the medical and social circumstances of the applicant. Assessments are categorized into profiles like 'terminal care,' 'full home care package,' or 'residential care,' determining whether care is provided in an Amsterdam care facility or at home with support from local teams.
The Role of the CIZ in WLZ Assessments in Amsterdam
The Centrum Indicatiestelling Zorg (CIZ) manages the issuance of WLZ assessments and receives applications from care providers, GPs in Amsterdam, or directly from residents. They apply the Health Insurance Act (Zvw) and WLZ regulations. After evaluation, they issue an assessment decision to the health insurer, who arranges funding.
In Amsterdam, the process often begins at a local GP practice or district nurse from the regional network. The CIZ may send an assessor for a home visit in your Amsterdam residence or review your file. The procedure typically takes 6 weeks, though complex cases in a busy city like Amsterdam may take longer.
Legal Basis of the WLZ Assessment
The WLZ, effective since January 1, 2015, replaced the AWBZ and forms the foundation for this care. Key legal provisions include:
- Article 3.2 WLZ: Sets criteria for eligibility, such as a permanent need for 24/7 care.
- Article 3.3 WLZ: Describes assessment profiles, including six standard options like 'PGB at home' or 'modular home care package'.
- Article 8.1 Zvw: Designates the CIZ as the body responsible for assessments.
The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) establishes detailed assessment rules via the Long-Term Care Regulation. The CIZ applies the WLZ Assessment Policy Rules, with criteria focusing on self-sufficiency and continuous support. For appeals against a decision in Amsterdam, residents can turn to the Amsterdam District Court, under Article 7:1 Awb of the General Administrative Law Act. The Amsterdam Legal Desk (Juridisch Loket Amsterdam) offers free advice on this process.
How to Apply for a WLZ Assessment in Amsterdam
The application process for a WLZ assessment is structured and accessible for Amsterdammers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Identify care needs: Discuss ongoing care requirements with your GP or a care provider in Amsterdam, such as through the local care network.
- Submit the application: The referrer (GP or specialist) completes the form on ciz.nl and attaches medical documents, often with input from Amsterdam’s care system.
- CIZ evaluation: The CIZ reviews the application; in complex cases, an assessor may visit your Amsterdam home.
- Receive the assessment decision: Within 6 weeks, you’ll receive the ruling, which is binding for your health insurer.
- Arrange care: With the assessment, your insurer selects a provider in Amsterdam or arranges a personal contribution.
Practical Example: Consider Mrs. De Vries (70), a resident of Amsterdam-Zuid with advanced dementia who can no longer live alone. Her local GP submits an application to the CIZ. After reviewing her file and conducting a home visit, she receives an assessment for 'institutional residential care.' She moves into a nursing home in the Rivierenbuurt, with full coverage minus her personal contribution, supported by local services.
Rights and Obligations in a WLZ Assessment in Amsterdam
Rights:
- Right to a thorough and impartial evaluation by the CIZ.
- Right to input: provide information and appeal via the Amsterdam Legal Desk (Juridisch Loket Amsterdam).
- Right to care as per the assessment, with a choice between in-kind care or PGB, including Amsterdam’s care options.
Obligations:
- Provide reliable medical information.
- Pay the personal contribution based on income and assets, calculated by the CAK.
- Report changes in health for reassessment; assessments can be temporary or permanent.
Without or with insufficient assessment, you can apply for additional care via the Zvw or Wmo through the Municipality of Amsterdam, though this does not always cover 24/7 care.
Comparison of WLZ Assessment with Other Care Laws in Amsterdam
| Law | Target Group | Assessment Body | Example of Care in Amsterdam |
|---|---|---|---|
| WLZ | Permanent 24/7 care needs | CIZ | Nursing home in West, intensive home care |
| Zvw | Medical care, not long-term | Health insurer | Short hospital stay at OLVG or AMC |
| Wmo | Household support, non-intensive | Municipality of Amsterdam | Day activities at the Center, light neighborhood support |
The WLZ specifically targets long-term intensive care; in Amsterdam, other laws complement it, though with limited overlap with local Wmo initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions for Amsterdammers
Can I apply for a WLZ assessment myself in Amsterdam?
No, the application must be submitted by a referrer, such as a GP or specialist in the city. They determine if WLZ is appropriate and complete the form. As a resident, you can discuss your care needs with the Amsterdam Legal Desk (Juridisch Loket Amsterdam) for guidance.
What if I disagree with the decision?
File an objection within six weeks with the CIZ. If rejected, you can appeal to the Amsterdam District Court. The Amsterdam Legal Desk provides free legal advice and forms.