The high sick leave has consequences for work environment, overtime, hiring, and finances, according to board chair Trine Olsen. She described the causes as complex, including general healthcare burdens, local conditions, restructuring, work environment, and factors outside work. The hospital has strengthened HSE support with advisors and implemented concrete work environment measures, Olsen said, adding that it is working on long-term stabilization and recruitment.
CEO Ole Hope stated that reducing sick leave is a priority to strengthen the work environment, reduce overtime and temporary staffing, and mitigate financial consequences. Despite the high sick leave, the hospital has maintained services at a defensible level and reduced waiting times during the period, according to officials. The new leadership structure aims to clarify responsibility and shorten the distance between operations and decisions, and Hope believes it will have a positive effect on sick leave.