Public dental care in Vansbro has permanently hired two experienced dentists from Athens and two nurses after eight years of staff shortages. This is expected to end long queues and patient referrals to other municipalities. Clinic manager Elisabeth Björklund describes the recruitment challenges in rural areas.
Public dental care at Folktandvården in Vansbro has secured permanent positions for two dentists and two dental nurses after vacancies persisted since 2018. The experienced dentist pair relocated from Athens, Greece, drawn to the area's tranquility.
During the shortage, locum dentists focused on child and emergency care, leaving adult patients with long waits or referrals to clinics in other municipalities. Clinic manager Elisabeth Björklund highlighted the difficulties in attracting skilled professionals to rural communities like Vansbro.
"We have cast many lines. Finally, we got a bite," she said.
The hires are expected to reduce queues and prevent further patient transfers, easing pressure on Region Dalarna's dental services. This recruitment marks a breakthrough following years of efforts.
