Sweden's New Elder Care Law Lets Municipalities Hire Doctors, Yet Most Shun It

On 9 June 2024 the Swedish Parliament approved a law that, from 1 August, permits municipalities to employ doctors directly in elderly care. The reform, championed by SPF Seniorerna and supported by Minister for Elder Care Anna Tenje, aims to raise medical competence and safety for older citizens.

A survey of 153 municipal council chairs commissioned by Dagens Samhälle shows overwhelming reluctance: 94 % say they will not hire municipal doctors, citing the costs of the new staffing model. The legislation is voluntary for municipalities and does not provide state funding; responsibility for medical services remains with the regional health authorities regardless of any local hiring.

Minister Tenje expressed hope for “good examples” of municipalities that adopt the change, arguing it will bolster quality and reduce the risk of older people falling through the care system.