The Dr. G.J. van Hoytema Award 2025 has been presented to Gerard Koel MSc, physiotherapist, manual therapist, and epidemiologist. Koel receives the award for his exceptional dedication and lasting impact on the quality of healthcare in Twente and beyond, through the establishment of innovative training programs and regional collaboration networks within physiotherapy.
The annual award is presented to a (healthcare) professional who, in collaboration with or affiliated with the University of Twente (TechMed Centre) or Saxion University of Applied Sciences, has made an outstanding contribution to improving healthcare through education and innovation.
EDUCATION AS A DRIVER OF QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
From 1978 to 2021, Gerard Koel worked part-time as a lecturer at Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Enschede. During this time, he developed a wide range of continuing education programs for physiotherapists, focused on strengthening professional expertise and quality of care in the region. These programs evolved into thematic training modules addressing chronic low back pain, hip and knee disorders, and shoulder complaints.
The jury particularly praised the long-term structural impact of this educational work: “Through targeted, practice-oriented training, Koel has contributed to improved treatment quality, shorter care pathways, and higher patient satisfaction,” said jury chair Dr. Heleen Miedema.
BUILDING NETWORKS THAT CONNECT CARE
In addition to education, Koel took the initiative to establish regional networks of specialised physiotherapists, enabling general practitioners and specialists to refer patients more efficiently and effectively. This collaboration resulted in shorter waiting times and faster access to expert treatment.
A striking example is the Shoulder Network Twente, in which physiotherapists, general practitioners, orthopaedic surgeons, and neurologists work together to improve referral policies. In a recent pilot, 90% of patients were successfully treated by a specialised physiotherapist, without the need for referral to an orthopaedic specialist.
According to the jury, this is “a powerful example of how education and network development together lead to efficient, high-quality care.”
Nationwide impact
Koel’s approach has since been adopted in other regions. The networks have united in national collaborative associations, strengthening professionalism and knowledge sharing within physiotherapy on a structural level.
ABOUT THE DR. G.J. VAN HOYTEMA AWARD
The Dr. G.J. van Hoytema Award is presented annually to a (healthcare) professional affiliated with or collaborating with the University of Twente (TechMed Centre) or Saxion University of Applied Sciences. The award recognises innovative educational initiatives that contribute to better, more efficient, and future-oriented healthcare. When the Dr. G.J. van Hoytema Foundation was dissolved in 2024, the remaining funds were donated to the University of Twente Fund and allocated to the newly established Dr. G.J. van Hoytema Fund. This year marks the first presentation of the award.
