Skolhälsovården

Skolhälsovården, or school health care, is a publicly financed health service in Sweden that operates through municipalities and regions and is attached to compulsory- and in some cases upper secondary schools. The service aims to support children's and adolescents' health, development, and ability to learn by offering preventive care, early identification of health concerns, and advice to students and their guardians.

Typical services include health screenings on entry and periodically during schooling (growth, vision, hearing), monitoring of development, vaccinations in accordance with national immunization programs, counseling on physical activity, diet, sleep, sexual health, mental health, and lifestyle, as well as referrals to specialists when needed. School nurses and school doctors primarily deliver care, often in collaboration with other professionals such as psychologists, counselors, or social workers depending on local resources and student needs.

The service is usually provided free of charge and designed to protect privacy; parental or guardian consent is normally required for certain examinations, while some services may be available with the student's consent if mature. Health records and information are handled in accordance with privacy and data-protection rules; the school health team works with schools to promote a safe, inclusive environment and to coordinate with general health care services for referrals and follow-up.

Skolhälsovården is part of the broader Swedish health and education system and relies on local authorities to plan and deliver services, guided by national guidelines and laws that regulate school health work.