AZ Voorkempen, formerly known as Sint-Jozef Hospital in Malle, offers a combination of professional and patient-centered care. Established in 1949, it originally provided surgical and maternity services, and has since expanded to include internal medicine and pediatrics. The hospital relocated to Malle in 1986 and continues to grow, now employing over a thousand dedicated staff members.

The hospital emphasizes regional top-quality care, aiming to be an essential link between primary and tertiary healthcare. Its mission reflects a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and patient safety. The logo, featuring maple seeds, symbolizes protection and the hospital's connection to the Emmaüs network, which includes UZA, AZ Klina, AZ Monica, and AZ Rivierenland.

AZ Voorkempen offers a variety of specialized medical services, ensuring comprehensive and high-quality care for its patients. Some of the key specialized services include:

1. Emergency Services: AZ Voorkempen has a well-equipped emergency department that operates 24/7, providing urgent medical assistance. The emergency team includes specialized doctors and nurses ready to handle critical situations. They also have a Mobile Urgency Group (MUG) available round the clock for urgent medical help via the emergency number 112​.

2. Nephrology: The nephrology department at AZ Voorkempen deals with various kidney-related issues, including chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, kidney stones, and kidney complications arising from diabetes and autoimmune diseases. The department offers different dialysis options such as hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis​.

3. Gastroenterology: This department specializes in digestive system disorders. Services include colonoscopies and treatments for diseases affecting the stomach, intestines, and liver. The department emphasizes thorough preparation and patient education to ensure effective diagnosis and treatment​.

4. Ophthalmology: The eye care team at AZ Voorkempen provides comprehensive services including general eye examinations, cataract surgeries, refractive surgeries, and eyelid corrections. They cater to both outpatient and day-surgery needs, ensuring specialized care for various eye conditions​​.

AZ Voorkempen's commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care is evident in their continuous investment in medical technology and infrastructure, as well as their collaboration with other hospitals within the Helix network, which includes UZA, AZ Monica, AZ Rivierenland, and AZ Klina​.

AZ Voorkempen is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services, emphasizing patient participation and efficiency. The hospital has implemented several innovative projects to enhance patient care and streamline processes.

One notable project is the Safe, Fast Infusion (SFI) initiative, which aims to reduce the time patients spend receiving infusion treatments. By allowing patients to complete pre-appointment questionnaires through the mynexuzhealth app, the hospital has managed to save patients up to an hour per treatment. This project not only improves efficiency but also empowers patients by involving them more actively in their treatment process​​.

AZ Voorkempen also benefits from its collaboration with AZ Sint-Maarten and AZ Rivierenland in operating a virtually paperless Pathological Anatomy Laboratory. This integration has improved efficiency, quality, and traceability in laboratory processes, ensuring better coordination and accuracy in diagnostic services​​.

Furthermore, the hospital is recognized for its warm and personalized care, with a strong focus on patient-centered treatment plans. AZ Voorkempen offers a wide range of medical specialties and maintains clear communication with patients to ensure they receive high-quality care tailored to their needs.

The strategic direction and purpose of AZ Voorkempen emphasize providing high-quality, patient-centered healthcare services. Their strategic goals focus on enhancing patient care through continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration. AZ Voorkempen aims to deliver comprehensive medical services while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, efficiency, and the well-being of their patients and staff.

Key elements of their strategic direction include:

1. Vision and Mission: AZ Voorkempen strives to be a leading healthcare provider, ensuring accessible, high-quality care for all patients. Their mission revolves around offering compassionate and professional healthcare services that meet the evolving needs of the community.

2. Innovation and Technology: Investing in the latest medical technologies and fostering a culture of innovation are central to their strategy. This includes adopting new medical practices and continuously updating their equipment to provide cutting-edge care.

3. Quality and Safety: A strong emphasis on quality assurance and patient safety guides their operations. This involves regular assessments and improvements in clinical practices to ensure the highest standards of care.

4. Collaboration and Community Engagement: AZ Voorkempen works closely with other healthcare providers, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance the overall health system. They actively engage with the community to understand and address local health needs effectively.

5. Sustainability and Efficiency: Implementing sustainable practices and optimizing resources are key strategic goals. This includes efficient use of medical resources, minimizing waste, and promoting environmental sustainability within their operations.

AZ Voorkempen has received several awards and recognitions highlighting its commitment to quality healthcare and patient safety. Some notable awards include:

1. Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval - This prestigious award is given for healthcare quality and safety, recognizing the hospital’s adherence to high standards.

2. Leapfrog Group Awards - AZ Voorkempen has been awarded the Leapfrog Top General Hospital Award multiple times, which highlights excellence in hospital safety and quality of care.

3. Healthgrades Awards - The hospital has received accolades for its performance in specific areas such as cranial neurosurgery and pulmonary care, placing it among the top 10% in the nation for these specialties.

4. Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation - The hospital has been named an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader, demonstrating its commitment to inclusive and equitable healthcare practices.

These recognitions reflect AZ Voorkempen's dedication to providing outstanding healthcare services and maintaining high standards of patient care and safety.