klientstyrte

Klientstyrte is a term used in Norwegian welfare and health care to describe service models in which clients have substantial influence over decisions about the services they receive. The concept emphasizes autonomy, choice, and personalization, and is often realized through mechanisms such as personal budgets or direct payments that allow clients to procure or tailor support, housing, or other services according to their needs and preferences.

Core elements include user-directed planning, flexibility in service provision, and accountability arrangements that safeguard quality and safety while maintaining client control. Implementation generally requires accompanying supports, such as guidance, financial management assistance, and access to information about available providers.

Contexts and examples: In disability and elderly care, klientstyrte approaches may enable people to choose providers, set schedules, and allocate funds for care, assistive devices, or in-home support. In mental health or rehabilitation services, they may involve client-led care plans and the option to hire support workers. Personal budgets are a common mechanism associated with klientstyrte models.

Implementation considerations: Successful use depends on accessible information, capacity-building for clients to manage budgets and contracts, and robust safeguarding. Challenges include administrative complexity, risk of inequity if some clients lack support to take part, and ensuring consistent service quality across providers.

Critics argue that while client control can improve satisfaction and relevance of services, it may raise costs and fragmentation unless well-regulated. Proponents see it as a realization of person-centered care and greater self-determination within public welfare systems.