In the proposal for a national plan, the authority lists ten overall goals and several proposals for measures. With the plan, the authority wants to see that care becomes more equal throughout the country. They point out that the distance to the nearest maternity clinic has increased in northern and central Sweden. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate how care works for pregnant and giving birth in rural areas and countryside and whether new working methods are needed to ensure accessibility and patient safety.
"Today, the place of residence determines the care that pregnant and giving birth receive. We also see continued deficiencies in, for example, aftercare and care for those with special needs", says Björn Eriksson, director-general of the Social Welfare Board in a press release.
The proposal for a national plan has been developed on behalf of the government and is estimated for the period 2026 to 2035.
A more individually tailored maternal health care for women with risk factors, special needs or mental illness.
A more equal access to fetal diagnostics and clearer information and support in decisions about fetal diagnostics.
A developed, quality-assured and more equal parental support to prospective parents.
A more equal, safe and secure childbirth care for all giving birth and children.
A developed neonatal care.
Better planning for the woman's aftercare.
Structured follow-up for all who have given birth.
Improved access to care and support for both physical and mental health problems after childbirth, including breastfeeding support.
A more nationally coordinated knowledge management and knowledge-based care.
A sustainable competence supply in care to meet the care needs of both pregnant and newborns.
