Jan Christian Vestre

“It is many patients who have told us that they have been denied bringing their closest relatives when they are going for examination, treatment, or check-ups at Norwegian hospitals.”

“We see that the regulations have been too unclear. Now we therefore propose to the Storting to legally establish the right to have a companion in hospitals.”

“We have a rule today that says as a main rule you should accommodate the patient's wish to have a companion. But we see several examples that this has been misunderstood. Unfortunately, there are patients who have been told no by the hospital.”

“Pulling the plug on this system and thinking it won't have dramatic consequences, that doesn't work.”

“It could cost many billions of kroner, which taxpayers must cover. It could take many years. It could create great uncertainty for users, clinicians, those working in hospitals, and patients. And great unrest, which we do not need in Health Norway now.”

“We relate to what the Storting decides, but I will strongly warn against this proposal.”

“This process started in 2017, and the contract with Epic was signed in 2019. It's almost a decade ago. We have changed the digitalization strategy in Health Norway, so there are fewer such large projects now.”

“But now we have the system we have. This decision was made at least two health ministers ago, and now it is my responsibility to help it work as well as possible.”

“The consultation showed that there is a need to look more holistically at how the public coverage of analyses can be made more efficient and targeted. There were also concerns related to possible consequences for analyses of generally dangerous infectious diseases, cancer, and other serious illnesses, as well as that the proposal could contribute to greater social differences, especially within dental health. The government is therefore not proceeding with the proposal to abolish reimbursement for laboratory analyses for private entities without an agreement now.”

“The Labor Party government is concerned with safeguarding children and youth. Therefore, we are now introducing a clear ban on selling nitrous oxide for recreational purposes and to minors.”