# Swedish Rheumatism Association healthcare reform advocacy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/swedish-rheumatism-association-healthcare-reform-advocacy > Updated: 2026-10-11T04:20:00.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. In anticipation of International Rheumatism Day on October 12, the Rheumatism Association has called for urgent healthcare reforms in Sweden to support the approximately one million citizens living with rheumatic diseases. The Association highlights that chronic illness patients represent 80–85 percent of healthcare costs and cause economic losses via sick leave and reduced tax revenue. To mitigate these impacts, the organization argues that investing in high-quality care and rehabilitation is profitable for society by helping more individuals remain in the workforce. Led by Pia Lennberg, the Association is urging regional authorities to implement a comprehensive care plan featuring clear accountability. Specific recommendations include ensuring access to specialized, need-based rehabilitation, providing individualized treatment plans with consistent medical contacts, and increasing long-term training positions for specialists such as doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-11: Influenza vaccine delays impact Sweden and Finland Delayed influenza vaccine deliveries are affecting parts of Sweden and Finland, forcing health authorities to prioritize high-risk groups as manufacturing processes catch up with seasonal needs. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rheumatism-association-calls-for-swedish-healthcare-reforms-1 ### 2026-10-08: Rheumatism Association calls for Swedish healthcare reforms The Rheumatism Association is calling for healthcare reforms in Sweden to improve diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation for the one million Swedes living with rheumatic diseases. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rheumatism-association-calls-for-swedish-healthcare-reforms --- Cite as: Swedish Rheumatism Association healthcare reform advocacy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/swedish-rheumatism-association-healthcare-reform-advocacy