Danish government unveils largest healthcare reform proposal in 20 years

The Danish government has unveiled around 50 initiatives as part of its proposed health reform, aimed at addressing inequalities in the healthcare system—the largest reform proposal in 20 years. Here are six key points highlighted in the announcement:

Firstly, the government plans to merge two regions—Region Zealand and the Capital Region. This new vast region will serve a population of 2.8 million and is expected to facilitate a fair distribution of healthcare resources, allowing skilled doctors from the Capital Region to work shifts in the under-resourced Region Zealand.

Secondly, the proposal includes higher salaries for doctors who practice in underserved areas. The government aims to incentivize physicians to work in regions with a shortage of medical professionals, such as Lolland and Falster. However, some healthcare analysts question whether increased pay will be sufficient, suggesting that opportunities for professional development may be more significant for doctors.

Thirdly, the government will implement quotas for specialist doctors at university hospitals to ensure a more equitable distribution across the country. It aims for some specialists from large facilities to also work in smaller hospitals.

Additionally, to attract more physicians to rural areas, the government will create new spots in medical education, including 70 at Aalborg University and others at universities in Esbjerg and Køge.

The reform also proposes new rights for chronically ill patients, introducing treatment packages similar to cancer care pathways for conditions such as COPD and diabetes, ensuring patients are not left to manage their conditions alone.

Lastly, 17 new health councils will be established, composed of local council and regional council members, tasked with enhancing local healthcare services and shifting specific health responsibilities from municipalities to the new councils.