Observing Presence in Practice: A Visit to Tergooi Medical Centre

On 5 June 2026, our delegation of six academics had the privilege of visiting Tergooi Medical Centre in the Netherlands for an inspiring day of interprofessional learning and collaboration centred on the implementation of presence in healthcare. The visit provided a unique opportunity to observe how the philosophy of presence has been embedded into clinical practice and organisational culture within a modern healthcare setting.

The day commenced with a warm welcome from Marieke Ridder, followed by an insightful presentation from Janet Bloemhof, who shared Tergooi's journey of introducing and implementing presence throughout the organisation. Participants gained valuable insight into how presence is cultivated not only in patient interactions but also through leadership, organisational values, and the healing environment.

A guided tour of the hospital showcased Tergooi's thoughtful approach to patient-centred care, including healing spaces such as therapeutic gardens, the silence centre, and artwork designed to promote wellbeing. These environmental elements illustrated how the physical healthcare setting can contribute to compassionate, holistic care.

One of the highlights of the visit was the opportunity for each member of the South African delegation to shadow healthcare professionals in different clinical departments, including medical and surgical wards, intensive care, emergency care, urology, and psychiatry. The observation exercise encouraged participants to identify characteristics of presence in everyday nursing practice while reflecting on opportunities to further strengthen person-centred care. Before leaving their respective units, delegates shared their initial observations with the ward teams, creating meaningful conversations around compassionate practice and continuous improvement.

During the afternoon session, the South African delegation shared their work on advancing presence in nursing education and practice.

Dr Kathleen Froneman presented “Enhancing healthcare through the DREAM Guideline”, demonstrating how healthcare professionals can develop a sense of presence to improve the quality of patient care, build meaningful relationships, and create a nurturing work environment.

Ms Didi Marcadonatos showcased "Walk with My Steen: A Practical Exercise in Understanding Empathy” illustrating an innovative experiential approach to developing empathy in healthcare professionals.

The presentations stimulated rich discussion on how presence can be implemented, sustained, and evaluated within healthcare organisations. Participants explored questions surrounding organisational culture, leadership, measurable outcomes, and the prerequisites for fostering authentic presence in clinical practice. Conversations also focused on exciting opportunities for future collaboration, including staff and student exchanges, joint educational initiatives, collaborative research, and scholarly publications.

The visit concluded with closing reflections alongside Professor Andries Baart, whose pioneering work on the Theory of Presence has inspired nursing practice internationally. The delegation was also honoured to meet Marijntje Wetzels, Chief Executive Officer of Tergooi Medical Center, reaffirming the hospital's commitment to person-centred, compassionate healthcare.

Following the visit, the core group of Presentie and colleagues from Tergooi shared the following reflection:

"On behalf of the Core Group Presentie and colleagues from Tergooi, thank you for your visit. It's wonderful how we can learn from each other, even though our challenges differ. The great importance of genuine attention in care connects our worlds."

This heartfelt message beautifully captured the spirit of the exchange. Although the healthcare systems of South Africa and the Netherlands face different challenges, the visit demonstrated that a shared commitment to presence, authentic relationships, and compassionate care transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The discussions throughout the day reinforced that meaningful international partnerships create opportunities not only to exchange knowledge but also to inspire one another in advancing person-centred healthcare.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Marieke Ridder, Janet Bloemhof, Professor Andries Baart, the Presentie Core Group, and the leadership and healthcare professionals of Tergooi Medical Centre for their generous hospitality and willingness to share their expertise.

A special word of thanks goes to Marjoke van Mierlo, Emergency Department Nurse and Staff Nurse, Bureau Verpleegkundige Zaken (Nursing Affairs Office), whose careful planning and coordination made this enriching visit possible. Her dedication and attention to detail ensured a seamless programme that fostered meaningful learning, professional dialogue, and the strengthening of international partnerships.

We look forward to building on these connections through future collaborative research, educational initiatives, staff exchanges, and the continued advancement of presence in nursing practice.