Everyone deserves understandable healthcare support
MediMaatjes – MediBuddies
MediMaatjes is a social initiative in the Netherlands dedicated to making healthcare more understandable and accessible for everyone.
Our trained volunteers support people before, during and after medical appointments so they feel confident, heard and understood.
Many people struggle with (medical) language, anxiety, or remembering details, and MediMaatjes provide presence, clarity and reassurance.
We believe everyone deserves clear communication and support in healthcare.
Who do we support?
We support people who may have difficulty navigating medical appointments on their own. This includes people who:
- don’t have someone they trust to accompany them
- struggle with language or understanding healthcare information
- find it hard to concentrate or remember details
- feel anxious or overwhelmed by medical settings
Whether due to language barriers, memory challenges, or other obstacles, MediMaatjes ensures no one feels alone in healthcare.
What does a MediMaatje do?
A MediMaatje:
- meets the person before the appointment
- helps prepare questions and clarifications
- stays with them in the waiting room and during the appointment
- supports understanding what the healthcare provider explains
- discusses the visit afterwards to ensure clarity
MediMaatjes do not give medical advice, record or share private information, or replace professional caregivers. Their role is to support communication and confidence
Boundaries & Safety
To ensure safe and trustworthy support:
- MediMaatjes are volunteers, not healthcare professionals.
- They do not provide medical or clinical advice.
- They do not make recordings or collect personal data.
- They focus on listening, explaining, and helping patients feel at ease.
Privacy and respect are central: all interactions are confidential and supportive.
Who Can Become a Volunteer?
Everyone who wants to make a difference can become a MediMaatje, no medical background is needed. A good level of Dutch is important to support patients effectively.
Volunteers receive support and free training through our MediMaatjes Academy app, a flexible way to give back in your own time.
How to Get Involved
Become a volunteer
Signing up as a volunteer is easy, you can register through our online form. Once matched, you decide which appointments fit your schedule.
Partner with us
Organizations can work with MediMaatjes to improve patient experience and communication.
Questions?
We’re happy to help in English.
This is the only page available in English. Other pages, documents and forms are currently in Dutch.
If you would like more information in English than is provided here, please feel free to contact us.