[Schroeder van der Kolk and psychiatric care].

J.L.C. Schroeder van der Kolk (1797-1862), appointed in 1827 as professor of anatomy in Utrecht, became famous as a reformer of institutional care for psychiatric patients ('the Dutch Pinel'). He was prompted by the unacceptable situation in the 'Buitengasthuis' in Amsterdam, where he had been employed as a young physician. As a trustee of the 'Madhouse' in Utrecht and subsequently national inspector for psychiatric institutions, he initiated substantial improvements.