Sweden to crack down on fraud in social services
Sweden's government has announced plans to set up a commission to examine how to combat fraud in LSS services - which encompass services such as healthcare, children's homes and transport for the disabled - more effectively. Fourteen people received prison sentences in Gothenburg in 2021 for fraud involving the use of fake patients, carers and documents which amounted to roughly four million euros. Since then, 85 care services have lost their licences.
Strict rules needed
The government is too cautious in its approach to healthcare fraud, Expressen believes:
“The possibility of employing relatives as carers should be heavily restricted in order to protect users. Stricter screening of users is needed in cases where there are no Swedish medical records from birth. Exaggerating or fabricating the need for care is a well-known criminal practice. And recipients of support should have an indefinite residence permit. In its guidelines, the government writes that the proposals 'should be designed with consideration for the ability of care providers to conduct their business'. Really? Systemic crime – but business considerations come first?”
Still a jewel despite its faults
Reforms of essential social services should not compromise their functionality no matter how badly they are needed, Göteborgs-Posten stresses:
“The government is appointing a commission to develop proposals for improved monitoring of assistance services, regulate family care and establish an inspectorate to ensure more fairness in this sector. Yes, the LSS services need to be overhauled. Nevertheless, the aim should be to retain what works. The possibility of receiving support is vital for many people and families. In terms of its ambitions, the LSS is still a jewel in the welfare system. It's just a shame that it has taken so many years for politicians to respond to all the warning signs.”