Behovsafklaring

Behovsafklaring is a term commonly used in welfare, health and social services in Scandinavia to describe the process of clarifying an individual's needs in order to determine appropriate interventions, services and support. The approach emphasizes a person-centered, collaborative practice, involving the user and often family or carers together with professionals from relevant sectors.

The purpose of behovsafklaring is to establish a shared understanding of the person’s situation, identify and prioritize needs, and create a basis for decisions about eligibility and service planning. The aim is to ensure that interventions are appropriate, proportional and rights-based, while promoting autonomy and efficient use of resources.

The process typically begins with an intake or referral, followed by information gathering through conversation, documentation, and sometimes standardized assessments. Needs are mapped across relevant domains such as health and functional capacity, daily living, housing and finances, social participation, safety and mobility. The user is actively involved in setting goals and priorities. Based on the findings, a service plan or care plan is formulated, decisions about required supports are made, and roles, responsibilities and timelines are defined. Follow-up is arranged to adjust the plan as needed.

Context and actors: behovsafklaring is common in municipal welfare services, health care and social care settings. It is usually led by case managers or social workers, with contributions from nurses, therapists and other professionals, all working in collaboration with the user. Ethical considerations include consent, privacy and respect for the user’s values and preferences.

Outcomes and related concepts: the process results in a needs-based plan that guides service delivery and resource allocation. Related terms include needs assessment, care planning and coordination of services.