Helen Mertens

Helen Mertens is chairman of the Board of Governors of Maastricht University Hospital (azM) and chairman of the Board of Governors of Maastricht UMC+. As of July 1, 2024, she is also president of the Dutch Federation of University Medical Centers (NFU).

Mertens studied medicine in Maastricht and specialized in obstetrics and gynecology. She received her doctorate in 2002 on research into gynecological cancer. Her career includes a broad mix of patient care, medical education and governance of healthcare organizations. For example, she was medical director of Orbis MC, one of the forerunners of today's Zuyderland.

Under her leadership, Maastricht UMC+ has set ambitious goals in the field of digital care, aiming to be a national leader by 2025. She is strongly committed to hybrid care, with digital tools playing a prominent role in giving patients more control and confidence in their care process.

Mertens believes in the power of collaboration and innovation. She initiated the Southeast Netherlands Knowledge and Innovation Agenda, in which healthcare partners, government organizations, universities and entrepreneurs work together to address healthcare challenges. She also has a strong focus on prevention, an essential part of Maastricht UMC+'s strategy.

With her experience and vision, Helen Mertens makes a valuable contribution to the editorial board of ICT&health, where she is committed to the future-proof development of healthcare.