Norwegian perspectives on health care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Abstract

The Norwegian health care system is built on individual rights and the principles of universal access, decentralization, and free choice of provider. Norway has universal health coverage, funded primarily by general taxes and by payroll contributions shared by employers and employees. Local authorities at the municipal level organize and finance primary health care services according to local demand and within national frameworks. Habilitation services are offered both in the primary health care and as a part of the specialist health services. They offer both inpatient and outpatient services for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). National guidelines, known as Good health and care services for people with IDD, have recently (2021) been launched after various reports over the years of serious breaches and challenges in the health and care services provided to people with IDD.