Swedish Government Allocates 3.5 Billion SEK to Reduce Healthcare Waiting Times

The Swedish government has unveiled a substantial healthcare budget for 2025, dedicating a total of 3.5 billion SEK towards initiatives aimed at drastically reducing patient waiting times for treatments. A significant portion of this fund, specifically 1.8 billion SEK, is allocated to directly tackle the issue of patients awaiting care for unlawfully long periods. This strategic allocation highlights the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and patient satisfaction across the country.

In tandem with this effort, an additional 1 billion SEK will incentivize regional healthcare services, contingent upon the adoption of new performance requirements. As part of a coordinated strategy, the government plans to appoint a national coordinator who will oversee the implementation of these measures to ensure efficiency in reducing waiting lists among different regions. Health Minister Elisabet Lann emphasized the necessity of addressing long waiting times, stating the importance of not just maintaining the high quality of Swedish healthcare, but also improving its accessibility.

The budget specifically earmarks 1 billion SEK for 2025 to bolster the number of surgical procedures, including cataracts, hip replacements, and prolapses, an initiative that extends into 2026 with an additional 750 million SEK allocated for continued efforts. Furthermore, the commitment to maternal and women's health remains evident, as 1 billion SEK is set aside for similar initiatives in 2026. Additional allocations include 100 million SEK directed towards treatment for eating disorders, underscoring a broader focus on timely healthcare services.