PUBLIC HEALTH SISTEM IN SWEDEN

The Swedish health care system is a socially responsible system with an explicit publiccommitment to ensure the health of all citizens. Quality health care for all is a cornerstone ofthe Swedish welfare state. The 1982 Health and Medical Services Act not only incorporatedequal access to services on the basis of need, but also emphasizes a vision of equal health forall. Three basic principles areintended to apply to health care in Sweden. The principle ofhuman dignity means that all human beings have an equal entitlement to dignity, and shouldhave the same rights, regardless of their status in the community. The principle of need andsolidarity means that those in greatest need take precedence in medical care. The principle ofcost—effectiveness means that when a choice has to be made between different health careoptions, there should be a reasonable relationship between the costs and the effects, measuredin terms of improved health and improved quality of life