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Norway Today

Norwegian news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Norway's Healthcare Faces Dual Crisis

Published: 2024-08-15

In Norway, the healthcare system is facing significant challenges as both nursing homes and general practitioners grapple with resource constraints and increasing demands.

At Majorstuhjemmet in Oslo, nurses like Erika Larsen Nordby are burdened with non-medical tasks such as cleaning and meal preparation, which detract from their primary healthcare duties.

This inefficiency is compounded by a staffing crisis, with many nurses preferring hospital work where they can fully utilize their skills.

Meanwhile, general practitioners are feeling pressured by patients with private health insurance, which is perceived to exacerbate inequality and lead to over-treatment.

A study from the University of Bergen reveals that 90% of GPs believe private insurance contributes to these issues, as insured patients often expect expedited care.

The situation highlights a growing divide in healthcare access, prompting calls for systemic reforms to ensure equitable and efficient healthcare delivery.