In the 2022 finance law, it was agreed to allocate more money to maternity wards. However, they are now facing budget cuts again. Several Danish maternity wards are facing significant budget cuts due to financial constraints. This is stated in a joint letter from the management of the country’s maternity wards to Anders Kühnau (Social Democrats), Chairman of the Danish Regions. The letter has also been sent to Health Minister Sophie Løhde (Liberal Party). – “This is happening at a time when midwives have started returning to public maternity wards, and the quality of patient care is gradually improving,” the letter states.
The cuts come despite the fact that more funds have been allocated to maternity wards in recent years. The 2022 finance law allocated 475 million Danish kroner for improvements in the field. This money will be disbursed over the period from 2022 to 2025. The agreement was made after numerous media stories about overstretched maternity wards. Midwives reported, among other things, a lack of time for breaks and basic needs such as eating or using the restroom due to busyness. Several hospitals also reported challenges in attracting an adequate number of midwives.
Despite the additional financing, the departments still face financial pressure. According to the Danish Regions, this is not due to misuse of the allocated funds. In a written response to Information, the Danish Regions stated that the regions’ finances have been strained by increasing expenses, including higher costs for subsidized medicine. One of the places facing budget cuts is Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen. The departments for childbirth, fertility, and gynecology expect a budget overrun of 11 million Danish kroner in 2024, as reported by Information. This will require savings that will be felt by patients, according to an email sent from management to employees.