Check@Home

In the Netherlands, there is currently no structured national approach for the early detection of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes in the general population, despite the social and economic impact of these disorders. A large proportion of people with these conditions are not aware of this, as it is often present without overt symptoms. When these diseases are not detected and treated at an early stage, they can lead to major complications such as kidney failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease, all of which come with a major impact on quality of life, participation in society, and premature mortality.

The Check@Home consortium was founded to fill this gap and is committed to develop a roadmap and infrastructure for an accessible and (cost-)effective national program for the early detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes to prevent progression and complications of these diseases. We aim for a program that is accessible to all socio-economic groups, that takes place in the citizen's own living environment, reduces the burden on primary care, and contributes to the affordability and sustainability of healthcare.

Check@Home is an initiative of the Dutch CardioVascular Alliance, Dutch Heart Foundation, Dutch Kidney Foundation and Dutch Diabetes Research Foundation. It involves citizens, patients, private parties, and experts from various disciplines (life sciences, health economics, humanities, social sciences, communication).

To closely match the wishes and needs of citizens, the program will be developed and implemented with citizens, including vulnerable groups, and other stakeholders in 4 regions in the Netherlands (Breda, Utrecht, Arnhem, and Eindhoven). In total, 160,000 people aged 50-75 years living in one of the four regions will be invited to participate in the study with a home-based test using the Check@Home digital platform. In case of early signs of cardiovascular disease, kidney damage or diabetes type 2, a targeted work-up will follow in a regional diagnostic center. If necessary, lifestyle advice and initiation of medication will be provided to relieve regular care as much as possible.