Patient in Kronoberg Loses Vision Due to Extended Wait for Specialized Eye Care

A patient in Sweden's Kronoberg region has tragically lost sight in both eyes following prolonged delays in receiving treatment for a severe eye condition. Initially, the patient's disease was manageable and responded well to treatment within the regional care system. However, as the condition worsened, a referral to a university clinic was made. Despite this, the patient faced a nine-month wait to secure an appointment at the specialized clinic after the initial referral. Additional delays ensued, including extended waiting for a follow-up visit and subsequent surgery. By the time surgical intervention occurred, the patient had already lost all vision.

This series of delays has highlighted critical shortcomings in the coordination and capacity of specialized eye care in the Kronoberg region. In response, Region Kronoberg has submitted a lex Maria report to the Swedish Health and Social Care Inspectorate (Ivo), acknowledging the severity of the incident and signaling an official investigation into the care lapse. The regional authorities have also announced a review of their internal procedures aimed at improving communication and speeding up referrals to university clinics, to prevent similar devastating outcomes in the future.

The case underscores the dangers of systemic delays in healthcare, especially for conditions where timeliness is crucial for preserving vital functions like vision. Officials emphasize the need for better coordination between regional and university healthcare providers to ensure faster access to specialized treatments.