The health care system is the foundation of society. Access to quality health care enhances people's quality of life and safety, while also being economically viable. This system should be funded through common resources, with budget appropriations increased to align with the averages of OECD countries. It is essential that everyone has equal access to high-quality, free services, regardless of their location. A key requirement for achieving this is ensuring that the number of health care employees meets the demands and standards required of the health service, along with providing a safe and supportive working environment.
Many important health institutions are facing a lack of funding, leading to understaffing, overwhelming pressure on staff, and a higher risk of long-term illness and disability. Essential services have been scaled back, and private companies are taking over a growing portion of these services. Instead of reducing waiting lists, this situation has actually increased inequality. Private companies operate these services for profit, which results in higher costs for those in need of care.
Research indicates that health inequality is increasing in Iceland. Individuals with lower incomes and less education tend to experience poorer health and a lower quality of life. Vulnerable groups, such as immigrants, older adults, and those with long-term health issues or physical challenges, are particularly affected. BSRB advocates for improved access to healthcare regardless of a person's economic situation or place of residence. The coalition calls for increased investment in the education and working conditions of health professionals. Additionally, there should be a focus on prevention starting from early childhood education, along with enhanced support for disadvantaged individuals. Ensuring that everyone has equal access to healthcare, education, and leisure activities is a priority to promote health equity.
BSRB is completely opposed to the marketization of health and the reliance on profit-driven fees. Private operations tend to decrease system efficiency, reduce oversight and coordination, and increase the risk of over-medicalization. They also complicate the monitoring of quality and services. The growing emphasis on privatization in the health care system particularly harms those who need services the most by driving up costs. Generally, privatization leads to pressure for wage cuts and layoffs among employees, all in the pursuit of higher profits, which ultimately benefit the owners at the expense of employees and the quality of care provided.
The insufficient availability of services for the elderly creates significant issues for the healthcare system, particularly when it comes to discharging patients from hospitals due to a lack of nursing facilities. To address this problem, it is essential to allocate adequate resources for the elderly, including sufficient nursing homes and home care services. Such provisions allow seniors to live safely and with dignity. Additionally, improving these services contributes to a more efficient healthcare system and enhances the quality of life for older adults. BSRB emphasizes the need for the government to develop a plan and secure appropriate funding to address these urgent requirements.
To ensure the safety and accessibility of all residents across the country, it is essential to strengthen telehealth services, ambulance transport, and air ambulance services. Additionally, reimbursements for travel and subsistence expenses for residents in rural areas must be significantly increased to guarantee equal rights for everyone when seeking necessary healthcare. It is also vital to ensure that home care services adhere to the commitments made throughout the country, regardless of a person's location or age. Furthermore, access to mental health services needs significant improvement to ensure individuals receive appropriate support and treatment when required.
Addiction diseases have a devastating impact on the health, finances, and overall happiness of individuals and their families. BSRB prioritizes prevention strategies to safeguard both individuals and society from these harmful effects. Additionally, it is essential to increase funding for treatment options for addiction-related illnesses.
Considering the potential impact of online alcohol sales on public health, BSRB endorses the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration regarding the importance of evidence-based alcohol policies. We advocate for maintaining the state's private sale of alcohol through ÁTVR, in alignment with public health considerations and existing laws.