"The Swedish quality registries enable health and medical professionals to compare, develop and assure the quality of care," said State Secretary Karin Johansson, opening the conference. Photo: Hanna Hedenius/Government Offices of Sweden
Improved results in health care using quality registries
Using quality registries to improve quality and cost efficiency in health and medical care is the theme of the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs conference that started on Tuesday 21 May. Some 150 participants from around 20 countries gathered in Stockholm to discuss the benefits of quality registries from various perspectives.
Action plan for 2013: Reduced alcohol consumption among young people reported
For the first time, the Government´s 2013 action plan for alcohol, narcotics, doping and tobacco (ANDT) policy provides a picture of the overall development of ANDT policy in the period 2000-2012.
"As the Minister responsible for children´s affairs, I am particularly pleased that alcohol and tobacco use is continuing to decline among girls and boys in year nine of compulsory school. This also gives reason to hope that fewer and fewer parents are offering alcohol to, or buying alcohol for, their children," says Maria Larsson, the Minister responsible for ANDT policy.
Care for people with substance abuse and addiction problems to be improved
Increased cooperation between county councils and municipalities is to improve care for people with substance abuse and addiction problems. On 14 March the Government adopted the bill "High quality and increased accessibility in substance abuse and addiction care".
The Government to examine whether the Convention on the Rights of the Child should be Swedish law
The Government wants to find out how the application of laws and other regulations comply with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and will therefore instruct an inquiry to examine the matter. The inquiry chair will also analyse the pros and cons of incorporating the Convention on the Rights of the Child, i.e. whether it should apply as Swedish law.
"This will be a very important task that can enhance the rights of the child," says Minister for Children and the Elderly Maria Larsson.
Proposals on health and medical care for people residing in Sweden without a permit
The Government proposes that people residing in Sweden without a permit be offered the same subsidised health and medical care as asylum seekers. Adults residing in the country without a permit will be offered care that cannot be postponed, including dental care, maternity care, contraceptive counselling and abortion care.
