Care that dares to be different

In an industry that often revolves around efficiency, protocols, and production, Cortoclinics has consciously chosen to chart its own course. Here, you won’t find a standard healthcare experience, but rather an environment where technology, experience, and personal attention come together. With a clear vision: better care begins not only in the operating room, but in the overall experience surrounding it.

“If I were on the other side, is this the kind of care I would want?” That question served as the starting point for founder and orthopedic surgeon Nanne Kort. The answer became the foundation for a completely new approach to orthopedic care.

Cortoclinics was founded in 2018, initially in a rented space. In 2021, the clinic opened its own facility in Nederweert, fully designed in line with that vision.

Innovation isn't just about technology

Cortoclinics is an innovative clinic, in part due to its use of robot-assisted surgery. According to Kort, the innovation extends much further. “That computer is just one part of it. We’ve optimized the entire care pathway—from diagnosis to recovery.”

Internally, they refer to this approach as the “Cortoclinics method”: a fully integrated process in which every step is carefully considered, documented, and continuously improved based on data.

You can even see that vision reflected in seemingly small details. “No white walls, no Dettol smell, no reception desk with a glass partition. Instead, an environment that feels like a living room. That creates a sense of calm. And that calm has a direct effect on recovery.”

Digitization as a Means to Foster Greater Humanity

While digitization in healthcare is often seen as impersonal, Cortoclinics uses it to provide more personalized care and ensure quality.

Kort gives an example: “Clients fill out digital questionnaires in advance. That means I already have 80 percent of the information by the time of the first consultation. I don’t have to type as much, so I can really look the person in the eye and have a conversation.”

Throughout the treatment process, an app supports the client every step of the way. In addition, digitization provides something valuable: data. “With that data, we can continuously improve our services. We see what works, what could be improved, and what people need. That’s how we optimize the entire process.”

To Measure Is to Know
 

Technology plays a particularly important role during the surgery itself. With robot-assisted surgery, every procedure is carefully planned and performed. “To measure is to know,” says Kort. “The computer ensures that we work within precisely defined limits. That makes the surgery more precise and less taxing.”

The real benefit, however, lies in the sum of small improvements, such as: less tissue damage, shorter surgery times, fewer instruments, and faster recovery. “They’re all small steps. But together, they make a big difference.”

Focus on the Patient Experience
 

One of Cortoclinics’ most distinctive features is its emphasis on the patient experience. “It’s not just about that hip or knee replacement. We look at the whole person.”

That goes beyond the physical problem. “It’s important how someone feels, what they expect, and what uncertainties they’re facing. Fear of surgery, anxiety about recovery, or simply not knowing what’s going to happen. These are all factors that directly influence how a client experiences and navigates the process.”

That approach translates into an environment that feels more like a boutique hotel than a clinic. “Calm, trust, and communication are crucial. The unknown makes people anxious. The more you know in advance, the calmer you are. And the better the recovery.”

De cliënt aan het stuur
 

Een andere belangrijke verschuiving is de rol van de cliënt zelf. “Vroeger was het: dokter bepaalt, patiënt volgt. Die tijd ligt achter ons. Het is jouw lichaam. Jij bent eigenaar.”

Cortoclinics ziet zichzelf daarom steeds meer als begeleider in plaats van beslisser. Technologie en data helpen daarbij, maar uiteindelijk staat bewustwording centraal.

“Wij kunnen een perfecte operatie uitvoeren. Maar als iemand daarna niet beweegt of ongezond leeft, dan houdt het op. Het is teamwork.”