Norway reports highest GP coverage in six years amid policy protests

Norway has reached its highest level of general practitioner (GP) coverage in six years. Recent data shows that the number of citizens without a permanent GP fell by nearly 18,000 between August and September, leaving 92,773 people without a designated doctor—the lowest figure since 2020.

There are currently 5,845 GPs in Norway, an increase of nearly 650 doctors compared to three years ago. Health and Care Minister Jan Christian Vestre stated that the government’s efforts to reform the GP scheme are succeeding, noting that capacity is increasing faster than the growing population's needs.

However, the system faces internal friction due to new tariff regulations introduced on July 1. These changes include financial incentives for doctors to avoid issuing sick leave. This policy has sparked significant protest, including resignations by GPs in Bergen who claim the new rules impact professional autonomy and patient trust. Protests and demonstrations have been held in Oslo and Bergen to demand a reversal of these tariff changes.