Patient perspectives on centralisation of low volume, highly specialised procedures in Sweden.

This study explores important considerations from a patient perspective in decisions regarding centralisation of specialised health care services. The analysis is performed in the framework of the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare's ongoing work to evaluate and, if appropriate, centralise low volume, highly specialised, health services defined as National Specialised Medical Care. In addition to a literature review, a survey directed to members of patient associations and semi-structured interviews with patient association representatives and health care decision makers were conducted.