When the S-led majority presented its budget for 2024 on Monday, it was clear that deep holes will continue to be dug in the performance equalization reserve. In total, the region has SEK 843 million on the coffin floor. But with a negative budget of almost SEK 300 million this year and with a budgeted deficit of SEK 227 million for 2024, the savings fund is shrinking rapidly.
"I also don't think we will be able to keep the 2023 budget," says Åsa Johansson (S) about the precarious economic situation.
Investing in health centres
Despite the tough economic situation, investments are still being made, not least in the health centers, which will have SEK 30 million to move with.
"It is a backbone of the care chain, and investments in mental health will also be implemented there," says Erik Evestam (C).
No redundancies
There are currently no redundancies of staff to cope with the economy.
"The staff is our most important resource and there are too few of us in healthcare as it is today," says Elisabeth Björk (Left Party).
The final budget decision will be taken by the regional council on 14 June.
In the video above, Åsa Johansson (S) talks about how the region will cope with the tough economic situation.