Criticism grows over exclusion of dementia from chronic illness packages in Denmark

Criticism has emerged from both patient advocacy groups and experts regarding the omission of dementia from the government’s proposed chronic illness packages. Mette Raun Fjordside, director of the Alzheimer Association, labeled this exclusion as a significant misjudgment, highlighting that dementia is the fourth leading cause of death in Denmark. She emphasized the need for coordinated healthcare pathways for dementia patients and their families, which these chronic illness packages could provide.

The government plans to introduce these packages starting in 2027 for various chronic conditions, including COPD, type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, chronic lower back pain, and complex multi-morbidity. Alongside this, citizens newly diagnosed will receive a personalized treatment plan coordinated by their general practitioner.

Professor Anne Frølich of Copenhagen University expressed her disappointment at dementia not being included in these plans, urging policymakers to reconsider. She pointed out that dementia, often referred to as a “relative’s disease,” significantly affects both patients and their families, necessitating better support systems.

Gunhild Waldemar, head of the National Dementia Center, criticized the long wait times for dementia patients to receive care, emphasizing that timely access to chronic illness packages is crucial. She noted that the number of dementia patients is expected to rise significantly over the next decade, stressing the reliance of these patients on their relatives for care.

Health Minister Sophie Løhde acknowledged the demand for dementia packages but stated that the development and implementation of these packages will take time, and not all patient groups can be accommodated simultaneously.