What to do in case of a Medical Emergency in Sweden

26 June, 2024

What am I supposed to do if I get sick in Sweden? This is one of the most common concerns among students, and rightfully so, given that life happens, and we should try to be prepared for such an event. Hence, it’s important to know how to seek proper care right away.

Should I call 112 or 1177?

In case of a life-threatening emergency, you must call 112 immediately! However, if the matter is not urgent, you do not have a serious medical emergency and so your life (or someone else’s life) is not in danger, then I would recommend you dial 1177 for free medical advice.

What is it like to call 1177?

When dialing 1177, you’ll be placed in a queue, and you’ll have to wait until your call gets to the head of the queue to get to speak to a nurse. The nurse who takes your call will first assess and record your symptoms. Sometimes, you are even asked to take some pictures of your wounds (in case of physical injuries). The nurse will then instruct you on how to take care of yourself at home or redirect you to the nearest healthcare center (Vårdcentral) for further investigations.

*Dialing 112 or 1177; Credits: Vlad Popescu*

What documents should I bring?

Having a personal identity number gives us lots of benefits, including being entitled to more affordable healthcare services on the same basis as Swedes.

The personal Identity number gives us quick access to high-quality health care services like the rest of the Swedish citizens; Credits: Vlad Popescu — *The personal Identity number gives us quick access to high-quality healthcare services like the rest of the Swedish citizens; Credits: Vlad Popescu*

The European Health Insurance Card is also useful to access various healthcare services at a reduced rate such as emergency dental care services which are very expensive in Sweden.

*The European Health Insurance Card prevents you from paying the entire cost of treatment yourself; Credits: Vlad Popescu*

Should I choose Vårdcentral or Närakut?

Both are care facilities for non-urgent medical treatment. Vårdcentral is the primary care facility and is open during the day from Monday to Friday, whereas Närakut is the local emergency unit that is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (weekends included). Please keep in mind that you will need to book an appointment before visiting a Vårdcentral. You don’t have to book an appointment for the Närakut. You can just show up but be prepared for a long wait!

KI students are encouraged to get in touch with the Vårdcentral named Liljeholmen Healthcare Center to see a doctor or nurse as there is a collaboration between KI and Liljeholmens vårdcentral (some of our teachers actually work there, so that’s pretty cool!).

My personal experience

Things went smoothly in my case, as I had a lovely experience. Every nurse I spoke to was very patient and kind to me. As a matter of fact, as soon as I arrived at the medical care center, even the patients gathered in the waiting area were quick to help and guide me through the registration process at the reception. I was very surprised by them being so protective of me!

If you are curious to find out more information about the Swedish medical system, make sure to check out the following article on the KI website: Healthcare in Sweden

I'm Vlad, your Romanian blogger who comes from the very homeland of Dracula, Transylvania. While completing my first degree in International Business, I based my undergraduate thesis on the inconsistency of biological analogies in Economics. I began to study the genomes of ants and thus gravitate towards Biomedicine and KI. I chose Karolinska because of its academic and research excellence and because one day I wish to be able to make a difference in the field of Cancer Genetics. Visiting the remarkable collection of preserved medieval manuscripts from the Kungliga Biblioteket is on my bucket list.

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