Medtech Magazine: New preparedness law omits vital aid equipment

A recent report in Medtech Magazine highlights concerns regarding a new Swedish government proposal for healthcare preparedness. While the proposal focuses on acute, life-saving interventions, it reportedly neglects essential assistive devices and rehabilitation services. Ida Kåhlin, chair of the Swedish Association of Occupational Therapists, has identified this omission as a critical deficiency. Kåhlin argues that the plan's failure to incorporate assistive technology and rehabilitation overlooks the complete continuum of care, from initial emergency response to long-term recovery. She cites the ongoing war in Ukraine as a stark reminder of the vital role rehabilitation plays in modern healthcare crises. Despite mandating the stockpiling of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, the proposal omits assistive devices, creating a significant gap in the country's overall preparedness strategy.