The Health Service Act No. 247 of 12 March 2024 (LBK nr 1015 dated 05/09/2024) is the main law in Denmark known as “Bekendtgørelse af sundhedsloven” that determines health services provision, including benefits within the public health insurance in Denmark. This Act specifies the structure, purpose, and standards for delivering healthcare services, including the public health insurance benefits provided to residents. Its overarching purpose is to promote the health of the population while preventing and addressing illness, suffering, and functional limitations on an individual basis. The Act is rooted in principles of respect for individual dignity, self-determination, and personal integrity, ensuring that healthcare services are delivered equitably and efficiently.
The Act establishes a legal framework designed to ensure:
- Healthcare services must be accessible to all, without discrimination.
- Services provided must meet the highest standards of care and professionalism.
- There must be integration and coordination across healthcare providers to ensure seamless care delivery.
- Patients have the right to choose their healthcare provider.
- Transparent and readily available information about health services is a fundamental right.
- Processes, policies, and provisions must be clear and understandable.
- The system aims to minimize delays in treatment to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.
The Act is formally proclaimed under the following statement:
“The Health Act is hereby promulgated, cf. Consolidation Act No. 247 of 12 March 2024, with the amendments resulting from Section 1, No. 3, of Act No. 907 of 21 June 2022, Section 2, No. 5, of Act No. 1778 of 28 December 2023, Section 1 of Act No. 644 of 11 June 2024, Act No. 645 of 11 June 2024, Section 3 of Act No. 646 of 11 June 2024, and Act No. 649 of 11 June 2024.”
Certain amendments, including Act No. 1779 of 28 December 2023 (which introduces the option for patients to opt out of resuscitation attempts in the event of cardiac arrest), have not yet been incorporated into this consolidation. The enactment of these amendments is subject to the discretion of the Minister of the Interior and Health, as outlined in Section 2 of Act No. 1779.
This proclamation underscores the commitment of the Danish government to maintaining a transparent, inclusive, and continuously evolving healthcare system. It reflects the legislative updates necessary to address new challenges and ensure the healthcare system remains responsive to the needs of its citizens.
