The Swedish Association of Health Professionals (Vårdförbundet) has called for a strike in five regions, after refusing to work overtime for the past month.

Their demands include halting systematic overtime and reducing working hours.

The Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SKR) has rejected these demands, citing costs and a shortage of healthcare staff.

The conflict has led to a blockade on new hires and has affected operations and other healthcare services.

Vårdförbundet insists that the current situation is unsustainable and is pressing for serious negotiations.