The postgraduate students from School of Nursing and School of Public Health, Minnesota University came to Stockholm for a study abroad course about Sweden’s healthcare system. During the week, students learned first-hand how the healthcare and social welfare system works in Sweden.

Objective
Sweden has one of the most prestigious healthcare models in the world. While learning about the different aspects of the Swedish health system, students explored questions such as: What makes the Swedish healthcare system one of the best? How much can be replicated in other parts of the world? What is Swedish and what is European when it comes to healthcare system performance?

Content
During the study tour, the students got a first-hand look at health financing, delivery, access and utilization. They met the CEO from Karolinska University hospital, speakers from Karolinska Institute and Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions, and discussed how policy work is linked to improved health outcomes, through visits to local primary care center, hospitals and a community dementia care center. New in this year’s program was a panel discussion with a local health care provider about staffing challenges and solutions.

Outcome
Although an intense program with study visits, students got valuable insights and unique perspectives on culture, policy and history within Sweden. Students were guided through the healthcare model that exists today. They had the chance to observe and understand healthcare service delivery during the course, and they also got a taste of Swedish culture and society.

Would you like to learn more about this study program? Please send an inquiry via email at