Sweden links child health checks from birth to age 20
Sweden has launched a national programme designed to link preventive health support from pregnancy through age 20. Recurring health visits are at the programme's core, alongside health conversations and parental support across maternal and child health services, dental care and school health.
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The Socialstyrelsen programme also covers mental health, oral health, violence prevention, lifestyle, sight and hearing, growth, puberty and development. It includes handover support intended to reduce the risk that children fall between services.
But Friday's launch is a national knowledge framework, not a guarantee that every service changes immediately. Municipalities, regions and other providers remain responsible for delivery. Socialstyrelsen's final report, including possible cost changes and a long-term implementation strategy, is due by 31 January 2027, according to the government.
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