vårdkedor

Vårdkedor is a term that has circulated in Swedish-language discussions about health care, though it is not widely defined in official policy or academic literature. It is often described as a concept for organizing and coordinating patient care across different parts of the health system to create a continuous and efficient patient journey from initial contact to follow-up.

The etymology appears to combine vård (care) with a suffix or root associated with kedja (chain) or coordination, suggesting a 'care chain' or 'care network' idea. Because the term is used in several contexts, there is no single, universally accepted definition. In practice, vårdkedor is used to describe models that emphasize standardized pathways, shared information systems, cross-setting responsibility, and prompt handoffs between primary care, hospitals, and social services.

In policy and professional discussions, proponents view vårdkedor as a frame for improving patient outcomes, reducing duplication, and shortening wait times. Critics caution that the term can be vague and ill-defined, risking unclear accountability or implementation without concrete standards, metrics, and governance arrangements. Realizing a vårdkedor approach typically requires clear leadership, interoperable data, funding alignment, and engagement from clinicians, managers, and patients.

See also: integrated care, care pathway, care coordination, care chain. Note: The term's usage and meaning may vary by context and source.