18 of 22 departments have responded to the union's survey. 94 percent believe that staffing is not sufficient this summer. 45 percent believe that the situation is worse than in previous years.
In some cases, patient safety is threatened, the midwives believe. 72 percent say that entire departments have been closed during the summer.
"This is a clear sign that the system is not working as it should. Midwives are available, but the conditions and planning are not sufficient to put the staffing together," says Sophia Godau, chairwoman of the Swedish Healthcare Federation, in a comment.
Staffing gaps are being covered with overtime, extra shifts and changed vacation plans. The situation is felt most acutely in Västerbotten.
The survey was conducted between June 25 and July 1 this year.
The survey was sent to the Swedish Healthcare Federation's National Midwifery Network and to the Healthcare Federation's department chairmen. Responses were received from 18 of 22 possible departments.
Source: Swedish Healthcare Federation
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