Since its inclusion in the basic health insurance package in December 2024, the digital combined lifestyle program SLIMMER Online—developed by GGD North and East Gelderland and Ancora Health—is now available throughout the Netherlands. The program is specifically aimed at adults with overweight and obesity, offering them the opportunity to work on a healthier lifestyle at their own pace, wherever and whenever they want. The initiative is supported by more than 2,000 physicians.
Although international studies have shown that combined lifestyle interventions (CLIs) can effectively slow the progression of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis, participation rates in the Netherlands remain relatively low. Traditional programs are often inaccessible to groups such as young professionals, parents of young children, and residents of underserved regions. A digital program can offer a solution for these populations. SLIMMER Online also offers customized groups for young adults and English-speaking participants.
Smart, Personalized Care
Through the Ancora Health app, participants receive weekly group coaching and digital support from a multidisciplinary team of dietitians, physiotherapists, and lifestyle coaches. The app provides access to video calls and chat, e-learnings, a peer community, and smart behavioral nudges to help users build micro-habits in areas such as nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Wearables and other monitoring devices are also integrated, making it easy to track progress.
Prof. Dr. Hanno Pijl, internist-endocrinologist and professor of Diabetology at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC): “The strength of SLIMMER Online lies partly in its data-driven approach. Every participant undergoes a biopsychosocial screening, allowing for tailored care, including referrals for additional support with financial or mental health issues. The medical app continuously adapts based on behavioral patterns and preferences, contributing to lasting behavioral change.”
Promising Initial Results
The initial results are promising: one in two participants achieves 5–20% weight loss without medication, fewer than 10% drop out early, and the vast majority consistently attend weekly sessions. Participants report eating healthier, exercising more, and experiencing less stress.
Regional collaboration is essential in the Dutch healthcare landscape. SLIMMER Online works with more than 30 regional coordinators, municipalities, and local public health services (GGDs) to implement the program locally. Community sports coaches join sessions and ensure a smooth transition to local sports and activity offerings. This builds a bridge between digital healthcare and the social domain.
Dr. Ellen van Dongen, SLIMMER project leader and health promotion advisor at GGD North and East Gelderland:
“SLIMMER Online demonstrates how digital lifestyle interventions can contribute to healthier lives, as part of a broader network approach to tackling overweight and obesity in adults. It’s a low-threshold complement to regular CLI programs: fully digital, personalized, and accessible anytime, anywhere.”
Source: https://mkblounge.nl/nieuws/digitale-leefstijlzorg-voor-mensen-met-overgewicht-en-obesitas-nu-beschikbaar-in-heel-nederland/#google_vignette