Accessing Swedish Healthcare
In Sweden, the healthcare system is decentralized, meaning it is run either regionally or through local authorities and municipalities. Healthcare resources are also managed locally and the types of services available in a particular region or area may therefore vary. Healthcare services are categorized as either public or private. It is becoming more common for regional and local authorities to buy services from private healthcare providers and an increasing percentage of Swedish healthcare is being financed by regional municipalities, while delivered by private providers. Some private healthcare providers are not contracted with the National Healthcare Services. Primary Care Specialist Care Waiting times for pre-planned care, such as cataract or hip-replacement surgery, have long been a cause of dissatisfaction. As a result, Sweden introduced a healthcare guarantee in 2005. This means all patients should be able to get a medical assessment within three days of contacting their primary physician. Following this assessment, no patient should have to wait more than 90 days to see a specialist, and no more than 90 days for an operation or treatment, once a diagnosis and course of action has been determined. If the waiting time is exceeded, patients are offered care elsewhere with no extra costs, including travel. Patient Fees European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) The European Health Insurance Card is limited to public healthcare, and only covers care which considered to be emergency and urgent care. It is important to note that the EHIC not an alternative to travel insurance.It does not cover any private healthcare, return flight to your home country or lost/stolen property. We welcome you to contact us if you have any questions regarding the Swedish healthcare system. Thank you! Your Human Entrance Team |
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