RIVM, the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, has a longstanding tradition in (strategic) foresight with the PHFS. RIVM regularly produces comprehensive Public Health Foresight Studies (PHFS). These studies provide insight into the most important societal challenges for public health and health care in the Netherlands. 

There is a growing interest in foresight, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic to increase preparedness. RIVM strengthens its foresight expertise and applies it to different topics. This is an essential element in RIVM’s independent role as trusted advisor for the government, both on the local, national and European level. 

In addition to Public health Foresight studies, RIVM conducts foresight studies in research fields that are adjacent to, or even outside, health and healthcare. Also, RIVM’s Strategic Research Programme recognises the importance of foresight, and the need to continuously improve our knowledge base.  

Producing regular, comprehensive public health foresight studies is not common practice in most countries. However, driven by the substantial future demographic and societal changes that many countries face, interest in such studies is growing. The PHFS team at RIVM therefore also engages in sharing experiences and capacity building. Therefore, RIVM invests in expanding current expertise, in collaborations and in innovations. 

More information can be found at our website Public Health Foresight | RIVM.