The cost of healthcare in the Netherlands has become one of the main causes of household debt, a survey by Nibud has found.

Around 22% of people who fall behind on their payments said health premiums were a factor, compared to 10% three years ago. The number of people who struggle with rent and household bills has almost doubled, while falling incomes are the third most common reason.

Nibud, an independent research agency which specialises in family finance, said the developments were worrying: ‘These results should send out a clear message to politicians. High contributions to healthcare, high excess costs and high rents are the result of decisions made by the government,’ a spokesman told NOS.

Two-thirds of Dutch households have debts, while one in five is classed as having debt problems.

The report (in Dutch) is available here.