What does the Long-Term Care Act (WLZ) entail?
The Long-Term Care Act (WLZ) is a national insurance that covers intensive, long-term care. This concerns care that is needed 24 hours a day or requires permanent supervision, for example for elderly people with advanced dementia or people with a severe disability in Utrecht and surrounding areas.
Who is the WLZ intended for?
| Target Group | Examples |
|---|---|
| Elderly | Severe dementia, significant physical limitations |
| Intellectual Disability | Continuous care or supervision needed |
| Physical Disability | Chronic and severe, requiring intensive care |
| Psychiatric Disorders | Long-term psychiatric support |
How do you apply for a WLZ indication in Utrecht?
For WLZ care, an indication from the Care Indication Centre (CIZ) is required:
- Submit an application to the CIZ (digitally or by telephone)
- The CIZ collects relevant medical data
- Sometimes a home visit by an indicatior follows
- Within 6 weeks you will receive a decision
Care Profiles and Their Meaning
What does a care profile mean?
The CIZ determines your care profile (ZP), which indicates how much care you need. A higher profile means more intensive support.
Forms of WLZ Care
In Utrecht, you can receive WLZ care in different ways:
- Residential Care: Living in a care institution, such as a nursing home
- Complete Package at Home (VPT): Complete care at home
- Modular Package at Home (MPT): Partial care at home
- Personal Budget (PGB): Arrange care yourself with a budget
Own Contribution for WLZ Care
For WLZ care, you pay an own contribution, depending on:
- Your income and assets
- Residence in an institution: higher contribution (room and board)
- Care at home: lower contribution
- The CAK calculates and collects this contribution
Can I decline WLZ care and stay at home in Utrecht?
Yes, provided that living at home is safe. You can then choose VPT, MPT or a PGB.
What if I do not receive a WLZ indication?
In that case, you may be able to receive care via the Social Support Act (Wmo) through the municipality of Utrecht or via the Health Insurance Act (Zvw).
How much own contribution do I have to pay?
The amount varies per situation. Use the online tool on thecak.nl for an estimate of your contribution.
Help and Advice in Utrecht
For legal support, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht
Frequently Asked Questions about WLZ in Utrecht
How do I apply for a WLZ indication and what is the waiting time?
You submit an application to the CIZ, online or by telephone. The CIZ collects medical data and schedules a home visit if necessary. Within 6 weeks you will receive a decision. Make sure you have documents such as a doctor's statement ready. In case of urgency, the process can be expedited if properly motivated.
What distinguishes Residential Care, VPT and MPT?
Residential Care means living in an institution such as a nursing home. VPT provides all care at home, while MPT offers a limited package of home care. Consult with the CIZ and your care provider what is suitable for you in Utrecht.
How is my own contribution calculated?
Your contribution depends on income, assets and form of care. Residence in an institution costs more due to room and board. Home care has a lower contribution. The CAK determines this and offers a calculation tool on their website. Objection is possible.
Can I combine a PGB with WLZ care?
Yes, with a PGB you purchase care yourself, which gives you more freedom of choice. The budget depends on your care profile. You are yourself responsible for arranging and managing the care.