Self-help groups and patient participation: current results and projects in the Belgian region of Flanders

Abstract

In 2018, around 1500 self-help groups existed in the Belgian region of Flanders, dealing with almost 200 different diseases or problems. Most have existed for 25 to 35years, with new initiatives added annually. The first part of this article describes the development of self-help groups and patient participation in Flanders. The second part discusses the legal framework for the participation of patient associations at the micro-, meso-, and macrolevel. The third section describes two current practical examples of patient participation in the health system: the "self-help-friendly hospital" and "the integration of experts by experience in hospitals" with initial interim results. Finally, we discuss development and growth opportunities, as well as needs of self-help groups and patient associations and their support agencies and umbrella associations. More support for self-help groups and increased recognition of their achievements can promote structural forms of cooperation with the professional health system and boost patient participation.