Are there long waits for healthcare in Sweden?
Swedish law stipulates that patients should wait no more than 90 days to undergo surgery or see a specialist. Yet every third patient waits longer, according to government figures. Patients must also see a general practitioner within seven days, the second-longest deadline in Europe after Portugal (15 days).
Are Swedes happy with their healthcare?
Swedish healthcare is largely tax-funded. And the overall quality is high. The Swedish health system performs well in general, life expectancy in the country is high and the general health among the population is good.
How long does it take to see a doctor in Sweden?
If using public health insurance, the average wait time to see a doctor in Sweden can be anywhere from one week to three months. If using private insurance, you may be able to see someone within a day or two, if not sooner.
What are the drawbacks of living in Sweden?
List of the Cons of Living in Sweden
- You will need to get used to the climate in Sweden.
- People in Sweden tend to isolate and stay in their comfort zone.
- You will quickly discover the unwritten rules of the Law of Jante in Sweden.
- Health insurance in Sweden does not cover everything.
Is it worth relocating to Sweden?
Sweden is a wonderful place to live with its kind people, excellent public services and corporate culture that encourages people to have a good work-life balance. It is no surprise that many people decide to move to Scandinavia’s largest country to enjoy all of the things that Sweden has to offer.
What are the pros and cons of healthcare in Sweden?
Swedish Healthcare System Pros and Cons While there are many pros to the healthcare system in Sweden, one of the few cons is wait times. Depending on your specific medical case, wait times can range from three to 90 days. Urgent cases are seen quickly, but non-urgent patients can wait a full week just to get an appointment.
How does the Swedish healthcare system work?
The Swedish healthcare system is organised into seven sections: Proximity or close-to-home care (this covers clinics for primary care, maternity care, outpatient mental healthcare etc.), emergency services, elective care, hospitalisation, out-patient care, specialist treatment and dental care.
Why do people buy private health insurance in Sweden?
The use of private health insurance has been increasing due to the low number of hospitals, long waiting times to receive healthcare, and Sweden’s priority treatment of emergency cases first. In Sweden, one in 10 people do not rely on Sweden’s universal healthcare but instead purchase private health insurance.
What is the wait time to see a doctor like in Sweden?
In past years, one of the few complaints the Swedish healthcare system has received is the wait time to see a doctor. Upon hearing this complaint, the country has taken strides to rectify this problem. Nowadays, once you find a doctor you should be seen in three to seven days depending on your needs.