Doctors in Denmark can now receive over one million kroner to establish practices in underserved municipalities. Region Zealand announced this new subsidy program on Tuesday.
The initiative targets nine specific municipalities facing severe doctor shortages. New physicians can get up to 1,250,000 Danish kroner (approximately $180,000) to open clinics in areas like Lolland, Odsherred, and Slagelse.
Existing clinics also qualify for expansion subsidies. New doctors receive guaranteed income matching 1,100 patients even if they have fewer actual patients.
"We will do everything possible to attract more general practitioners," said Regional Council Chairperson Trine Birk Andersen. "I hope this financial carrot convinces those considering becoming GPs in Region Zealand."
The region aims to add 56 new doctors by 2026 through its budget agreement. Clinics with doctors over age 63 also receive special subsidies to encourage longer careers.
Other eligible municipalities include Kalundborg, Næstved, Guldborgsund, Vordingborg, Greve, and Stevns. The funding comes from a national agreement between the government and Danish Regions.
This addresses Denmark's 2024 healthcare reform implementation. The reform focuses on improving local healthcare access and creating more equal health services nationwide.
Attracting doctors to rural areas remains challenging across Denmark. Northern Jutland and western Zealand municipalities struggle particularly with recruitment.
Northern Jutland already increased medical school admissions in Aalborg. The region now works to retain graduates after training.
The massive financial incentives reveal how serious the doctor shortage has become in Denmark's rural communities. While money helps, solving regional healthcare disparities requires broader systemic changes.