On 12 December Michelle van Tongerloo released a book, Komt een land bij de dokter. Through powerful patient stories, Michelle explores how we can create a more compassionate society—one that listens to people rather than systems. Michelle, a general practitioner and street doctor in Rotterdam, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in a system where economic interests often overshadow genuine care.
The book delves into the complexities of providing healthcare to marginalized populations, emphasising the need for a more compassionate and patient-centred approach. Through her narratives, Michelle advocates for 'professional proximity'—a closer, more empathetic doctor-patient relationship—as opposed to the traditional 'professional distance' that can hinder effective care.
A small contribution to a larger conversation
We’re proud that Margot Kersing, PhD researcher Centre for BOLD Cities has contributed to this book. This collaboration reinforces the importance of critically examining the role of data-driven governance and its impact on those most vulnerable in society.
The book includes a chapter that references research on the experiences of welfare recipients with data-driven approaches in municipal services. Specifically, Chapter 9: “Rilana, het verhaal waarin alles samenkomt” draws from this work, highlighting how municipalities’ reliance on data affects individuals navigating social services.