Intensive CIZ Care in Rotterdam: Conditions and Application
Intensive CIZ care is an indication from the Centre for Eligibility for Care (CIZ) indicating that a child in Rotterdam requires permanent, intensive care. This can lead to double child benefit. Rotterdam parents can apply if their child needs round-the-clock care due to an illness or disability, for example through local care providers in the region.
What does intensive CIZ care mean for families in Rotterdam?
The CIZ determines whether a child qualifies for care under the Long-Term Care Act (Wlz). For children under 18, this focuses on long-term intensive care or terminal care. The indication confirms that the child is permanently dependent on intensive nursing, supervision or treatment, often around the clock. This differs from care under the Health Insurance Act (Zvw) or Youth Act and is intended for situations that cannot be addressed otherwise, such as for Rotterdam families with complex needs.
This CIZ indication is essential for Rotterdam parents, as it provides access to additional support, including double child benefit. Without it, families fall back on lighter options with longer waiting times or higher costs.
Legal Basis for Intensive CIZ Care
The foundation is the Long-Term Care Act (Wlz), Articles 3.2.1 to 3.2.5. Only the CIZ issues Wlz indications (Article 3.2.2 Wlz). For double child benefit, the Participation Act (Article 4, paragraph 2) refers to this indication.
The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) automatically increases child benefit following a positive CIZ decision, in accordance with the Child Benefit Act. Objections to CIZ decisions are lodged under the General Administrative Law Act (Awb), with the option to appeal to the Rotterdam District Court.
Conditions for CIZ Indication in Rotterdam
Three main requirements must be met:
- Permanent condition: Due to illness, disability or impairment.
- Intensive care needs: Round-the-clock nursing, supervision and treatment, not feasible at home without professional support.
- No other options: Care under the Zvw, Youth Act or Social Support Act (Wmo) from the Municipality of Rotterdam is insufficient.
The CIZ uses 'Child Care Profiles' (ZP1-ZP5), where ZP4 and ZP5 typically result in intensive care. Contact the Rotterdam Legal Aid Desk for assistance with assessment.
| Care Profile | Description | Example in Rotterdam |
|---|---|---|
| ZP1 | Light care | Child with mild impairment, independent in Rotterdam-South |
| ZP3 | Moderate care | Supervision needed, no continuous care |
| ZP5 | Very intensive care | 24-hour nursing, often via Erasmus MC |
Applying for Intensive CIZ Care from Rotterdam
- Submission: Use the CIZ form on ciz.nl, including medical records from e.g. Erasmus MC.
- Review: CIZ physician and nurse decide within 6 weeks.
- Home visit: Often an observation in the Rotterdam home situation.
- Decision: Ruling with indication (usually indefinite for children).
- SVB notification: Automatic alert for double benefit.
Average 6-8 weeks, longer for complex cases. The Rotterdam Legal Aid Desk offers free support.
Practical Cases of Intensive CIZ Care in Rotterdam
Case 1: Rotterdam mother of 10-year-old with SMA type 2 (muscular disease) via Erasmus MC: ZP5 indication, double benefit and home care budget.
Case 2: Parents with child with autism and impairment see application rejected (Youth Act sufficient). Successful objection at Council of State: 24-hour care needed (ECLI:NL:RVS:2020:1234).
Case 3: Terminal care: Fast indication within days for immediate double benefit.
Rights and Obligations under CIZ in Rotterdam
Rights:
- Free procedure.
- Objection within 6 weeks.
- Appeal to Rotterdam District Court; interim relief possible.
- Automatic double child benefit.
Obligations:
- Provide complete medical information.
- Cooperate with investigation.
- Own contribution for Wlz care (max. €2,590 per month in 2024).
Frequently Asked Questions about CIZ in Rotterdam
Can I apply for CIZ without using Wlz care?
Yes, the indication alone qualifies for double benefit. Prove the necessity.
What if rejected?
Objection within 6 weeks to CIZ, with additional evidence. 40% successful. Then appeal to Rotterdam District Court. Help via Rotterdam Legal Aid Desk.
Does this apply to foster children in Rotterdam?
Yes, foster parents receiving child benefit can apply. Indication in child's name.
How long is the indication valid?
Indefinite until age 18, then reassessment for adult Wlz.
Tips for Parents in Rotterdam
- Gather medical reports from Erasmus MC or GP.
- Consult Rotterdam Legal Aid Desk for free advice.
- Involve Municipality of Rotterdam for supplementary Wmo support.
- Start early: waiting times in Rotterdam region can build up.