Denmark

On January 1, 2025, an amended Executive Order on Medical Devices entered into force, which makes it possible to send single-use medical devices for reprocessing and further reuse. At the same time, it ensures that the reprocessed devices are safe and effective to use on an equal footing with the original CE-marked devices.

Since January 1, 2025, the Danish Healthcare Quality Institute has been established, replacing the Health Technology Council and the Regions' Clinical Quality Development Program. The Institute comprises three overall focus areas that contribute to patients receiving high and uniform quality treatment across the country and the best possible health for the money.

The Danish Health Data Authority quarterly updates the Health Care Classification System (SKS). The latest version was published in mid-December 2024 to come into force on January 1, 2025. Among other changes, thirty-two new procedure codes were introduced concerning diagnostic imaging, endoscopy, ENT, gastrointestinal, in-vitro diagnostics, neurology and neurosurgery, neuromodulation, surgical procedures, mental health, and some other fields.

In December 2024, the Danish Board for Health Apps published information on how to apply for the health app evaluation, including the electronic form for the application to the Board of Health Apps, the assessment criteria, and details of the application process.

On November 22, 2024, the Danish Health Authority announced that it would change its organizational structure. This restructuring is expected to prepare the Danish Health Authority for Health Care Reform work and set a new framework for the work with public health. The organizational changes will take effect on January 1, 2025.

On November 6, 2024, the first meeting of the Board for Health Apps was held in Denmark. As soon as the Board determines the criteria according to which it will assess health apps, it will be possible to apply for assessment followed by recommendations

On November 12, 2024, the Danish Health Data Authority published the DRG tariffs for 2025. In accordance with the released documentation, four new DRGs in the fields of radiology, dermatology, and the treatment of functional disorders will be introduced in 2025.

In November 2024, the Danish Government presented a new Strategy for Life Science towards 2030. The Strategy will strengthen the role of innovative health solutions in relation to freeing up labor and ensuring a sustainable healthcare system. The Vision is that Denmark must be a leading life science nation in Europe to benefit patients, the Danish healthcare system, and the Danish economy.

In September 2024, it was announced by the Danish Regions that according to the budget agreements for 2025, all regions have prioritized money to strengthen the local healthcare system (primary care) and ensure a robust hospital system and a continued high level of activity.

The Danish Health Data Authority quarterly updates the Health Care Classification System (SKS). The updated version was published in mid-September 2024 to come into force on October 1, 2024. Eight new medical procedure codes and one new code for diagnostic investigations were introduced concerning obstetrics and gynecology, extracorporeal treatments, spine, cardiovascular, e-health, diagnostic imaging, and some other fields.

On August 19, 2024, the Agenda for the meeting of the Board of Danish Regions was published. One of the themes to be discussed during the meeting was the Danish Regions consultation response regarding the Health Structure Commission's report. The meeting was held on August 22, 2024.

On August 6, 2024, the Danish Health Data Authority opened the application period for changes in the 2026 DRG logic, including the creation of new DRG codes and changes in the grouping logic for existing DRGs. The deadline for the submission of the applications is November 8, 2024.