Swedish healthcare is generally of high quality, but long waiting times and large regional differences have been a problem for a long time. In recent years, waiting times have continued to increase, and the statutory waiting time guarantee has never been fulfilled since its introduction in 2010.
In May 2024, the government decided to conduct an inquiry to analyse and propose a new and strengthened waiting time guarantee. The new guarantee for specialized care must be based on the patient’s needs and have significantly shorter time limits than today’s 90 days to the first visit and 90 days to treatment (after a decision). Patients must also be given the opportunity to receive care earlier than today from a healthcare provider outside their own region, at no extra cost to the patient. In cases where the waiting time guarantee is not fulfilled, investigators must also analyse and submit proposals for measures that supervisory authorities can take against the principals, without imposing financial sanctions on the region or extra costs for the patient. The investigation must also map the need for continuity and coherent care and make suggestions on how patients can gain access to fixed medical contacts in relevant parts of specialized care.