AZ Zeno and Knokke-Heist Municipality Join Forces for a Vital Future

Joint vision on health emphasizes prevention, lifestyle, and collaboration between caregivers and residents.

Generic image of a modern healthcare facility with large windows, set against a backdrop of a vibrant community park with people walking, soft daylight.
AI

Generic image of a modern healthcare facility with large windows, set against a backdrop of a vibrant community park with people walking, soft daylight.

AZ Zeno and the municipality of Knokke-Heist presented their joint vision on the future of healthcare on Wednesday, October 28, during an inspiring evening at CC Scharpoord.

The ambition is clear: to jointly build a vital municipality where residents can live longer, healthier, more active, and independent lives. Mayor Cathy Coudyser highlighted the municipality's commitment to a healthy living environment, with a focus on movement, social interaction, nature, and connection. Dr. Emanuel Van Hoecke, medical director of AZ Zeno, explained the inseparable link between prevention and medical care within AZ Zeno and Zeno2.
Dr. Ilse Dapper, internist and lifestyle physician at Zeno2, provided concrete examples of how this vision is put into practice. She emphasized that individuals can take control of their health with support from Zeno2. "With Zeno2, we aim to support people in making conscious choices that contribute to their health and quality of life. We provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills, offer personalized guidance, and consider their individual needs and capabilities. Because sustainably working on your health requires more than just knowing what's good for you."
Futurologist and moderator Koen Kas provided additional inspiration, including presenting the 'Power 9' lifestyle principles from the Blue Zones. Following the presentation, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas about the future of health.
The evening underscored the importance of collaboration between the hospital, the municipality, and its residents. The organizers are moving forward with renewed insights, fresh ideas, and great enthusiasm!
Based on information from the official source: Gemeente Knokke-Heist — Nieuws (03/11/2026)