The Swedish Association of Health Professionals (Vårdförbundet) has rejected mediation in their ongoing healthcare conflict, fearing worsened conditions for members.

Vårdförbundet demands shorter working hours, which employers argue is too costly.

Since April 25, around 63,000 members have refused overtime, leading to a blockade affecting new hires and operations.

Over 430 surgeries have been canceled or postponed, with significant impacts reported across 20 of Sweden's 21 healthcare regions.

The strike may escalate if an agreement is not reached by June 4, affecting around 2,000 members in five regions.