Helsevesen

Helsevesen, or the health service, refers to the organized system of health care and related services that are available to a population. It covers prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care, and aims to promote health, prevent disease, and ensure access to medical care of necessary quality regardless of income.

Most health services are organized into three levels: primary care, hospital services, and specialized health services. Primary care is typically delivered by general practitioners and municipal health services; hospital services provide secondary and tertiary care; specialized services include public health, mental health care, and ambulance services. In many systems, preventive services and chronic care management are integrated across levels.

Governance and financing: health services are financed largely through taxation and public funding, with private providers operating within a regulated framework. Government agencies set policy, standards, and priorities; regional or local authorities manage service delivery; professional bodies oversee practice and licensing.

Access and rights: in many systems, health care is designed to ensure universal access to medically necessary care. Patients are entitled to reasonable access, with some waiting times for non-emergency procedures; service use is subject to referral and triage procedures. Quality, safety, and patient rights are promoted through reporting, accreditation, and oversight.