Norway's Economic Crime Unit has launched a major investigation into a private healthcare company. Prosecutors suspect the firm committed serious fraud against two public hospitals.
The operation targeted five locations last week. Authorities arrested one person who was later released the same day.
Investigators seized assets worth approximately 100 million Norwegian kroner ($9.3 million). Both the company owner and managing director now face charges of aggravated fraud involving up to 300 million kroner ($28 million).
Prosecutors believe the company exploited Norway's healthcare waiting list system. This system allows public hospitals to hire private providers when they cannot treat patients within mandated time limits.
The private healthcare firm offered medical services to patients on behalf of several public hospitals. This case represents one of Norway's largest potential healthcare fraud investigations in recent years.
Anne Allum, the state prosecutor, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations. Welfare crime damages both public services and private businesses, she explained. It also threatens public trust in authorities and carries significant economic consequences.
The Norwegian welfare state guarantees equal access to public services for all citizens. This model relies heavily on tax revenue from income, consumption, and wealth.
Further investigation will determine whether criminal acts occurred within the company. Authorities also want to establish if public systems were deliberately exploited.
Prosecutors have requested that any healthcare providers or patients with relevant information come forward. The case was originally reported to economic crimes investigators by Nordland Hospital and University Hospital of North Norway.
This case highlights ongoing challenges in Norway's mixed public-private healthcare model. When private companies exploit public systems, it ultimately harms taxpayers who fund these essential services.