Belgian midwives to withdraw from RIZIV agreement over lack of political action

The Flemish Professional Organisation of Midwives (VBOV) recently announced its intention to leave the RIZIV convention by the end of October. Now, their French-speaking counterparts have joined them. Starting in 2025, midwives across Belgium will no longer adhere to the government-set price agreements for their services. “The lack of concrete political action is distressing,” the VBOV stated on Wednesday.

It is still unclear how this decision will impact the costs that parents face. “Not all midwives will immediately de-contract,” explained VBOV chairwoman Marlene Reyns. “In January, they will first receive an individual offer from the RIZIV.” However, Reyns expects that more midwives will eventually opt out of the agreement. “Unfortunately, parents can then receive a higher bill, which we do not welcome,” she noted.

The move comes amid growing frustration over the health insurance budget deadlock. Last month, the federal government failed to reach an agreement on this budget, preventing RIZIV from considering a proposal to ensure funding stability. “It seems certain that there will be no additional resources available for midwives next year, resources that are essential to guarantee the viability of the profession,” the VBOV had stated, expressing strong dissatisfaction. Some politicians are reportedly considering pushing the issue to the next federal government, leaving the budget gridlocked.

As a result of this deadlock, VBOV members overwhelmingly supported the decision to exit the tariff agreement. They called it a “historic decision,” saying that the move reflects “growing concern and dissatisfaction about the lack of political support and financial appreciation for the work of first-line midwives in Belgium.” The organisation said that it had not made the choice lightly.

On Wednesday, French-speaking midwifery organisations UPSFB and AFSF also declined to sign the RIZIV convention, meaning the convention will officially end on 1 January, 2025. "Politics must recognise the crucial role of midwives and support their essential care with fair pay and workable conditions," the VBOV concluded. “We call on policymakers to no longer be blind to the indispensable contribution of midwives and to ensure a sustainable framework.”

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