Collaboration between WKZ and Princess Máxima Center

The collaboration between the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (WKZ) and the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology at the Utrecht Science Park is a powerful example of integrated care and research at the highest level, with the aim of providing the best possible treatment for sick children in the Netherlands.

One campus, shared mission

Both institutions are located at the Utrecht Science Park and work closely together in the areas of care, research and education, with the shared goal of improving the chances of survival and quality of life of children with (serious) conditions.

• The WKZ, part of the UMC Utrecht, specializes in complex pediatrics, surgery and neonatal care.
• The Princess Máxima Center is the national center for pediatric oncology, where care, research and education are fully integrated.

Collaboration in practice

1. Joint patient care
   Children with cancer are treated at the Princess Máxima Center, but often also require other complex medical care, for example in the area of ​​heart, lung or neurological conditions. To this end, doctors from the WKZ work closely with specialists from the Máxima Center. Patients can quickly and efficiently use the facilities of both institutions.
2. Shared infrastructure
   There are shared operating rooms, intensive care units and diagnostic facilities (such as imaging and laboratories). This ensures short lines, faster diagnoses and more efficient treatments.
3. Scientific research
   The collaboration also strengthens translational research. Researchers from both institutions share knowledge and work together on groundbreaking studies, such as new forms of immunotherapy, gene therapy and personalized medicine.
4. Education and innovation
   Students and doctors in training benefit from the combined expertise of two top institutions. There are joint training programs and innovative projects that arise from the practical experience of both centers.

Impact

This unique collaboration leads to:

• Better treatment results
• Faster innovations in healthcare
• A child-friendly, integrated approach to complex care

Watch the film about this unique collaboration below.