Seven in ten Swedish municipalities lack current care continuity plans

Sweden’s National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) has reported persistent gaps in municipal planning to maintain health and social care during serious disruptions. Its 2026 open comparisons assess whether municipalities have current continuity plans. The source does not specify the number of participating municipalities or provide detailed assessment methods.

The proportion of municipalities with a current health and social care continuity plan increased from 22% to 32% over one year, leaving roughly seven in ten without one. Coverage varied by service: 42% had current plans for residential care for older people, compared with 20% for residential care or accommodation for children and young people, known as HVB.

According to the agency, all municipalities should be able to maintain operations using their own resources for at least two weeks of crisis or war. Extended power outages, drinking-water problems and widespread staff absences can disrupt care, making continuity planning particularly relevant for vulnerable populations. The agency has released online training, discussion materials and practical planning resources, and will follow up continuity and evacuation planning. These findings describe planning coverage, not demonstrated operational readiness or patient outcomes.