Sure! Here’s a revised version with a more natural, engaging tone:
Today, many across Norway, the Nordic countries, Europe, and beyond are left questioning how a democratically elected president—exhibiting distinctly narcissistic traits—can completely upend alliances on security and defense, disrupt the global economy, and reshape our understanding of the world. How is that even possible? One can’t help but think they might benefit from a dose of that quintessential Norwegian common sense over there across the Atlantic.
But what about the factors shaping our own society right here at home? What drives our daily lives, defines our values, and influences the systems around us?
On January 9, Health Mid-Norway welcomed a new chairperson, Per Axel Koch. This appointment has sparked a flurry of questions and concerns, particularly regarding his impartiality given that he also serves as CEO of Polaris Media. I understand the unease! Could the very fabric of our media—the so-called “fourth estate”—be compromised when individuals wield power and ownership across various sectors?
So, what makes someone like Per Axel Koch the preferred choice for this role? A civil economist graduating from NHH in 1985, Koch has held positions as director and CEO in multiple media companies, as well as chairing Sparebank 1 SMN and Fjordkraft. Why, one might wonder, isn’t a healthcare board chair selected from candidates with a background in health and medicine—individuals with their feet firmly planted on the ground, who truly understand the pressing needs of the sector? There’s no shortage of qualified people with expertise in organization and management available for the role.
Since its launch in 2022, the Health Platform in HMN has made an unmistakable impact on all of us; be it as healthcare professionals, patients, or family members. By January 2026, the costs of implementing and developing the Health Platform are expected to exceed seven billion kroner, significantly higher than the original budget of 4.1 billion. Annual operational costs have been estimated at 800 million kroner. By 2026, it was revealed that an additional 35 million kroner would be required to enhance user-friendliness. Concerns about the platform were voiced by healthcare personnel prior to its introduction, yet their insights and experiences went largely unheeded. In fact, by 2024, the project received the harshest criticism from the Office of the Auditor General.
For those of us living in Mid-Norway—whether reliant on healthcare, caring for loved ones, or working in the sector—decisions made by individuals who’ve spent their careers at the top can feel distant from our realities. Imagine if the billions spent on the Health Platform had instead been allocated to hiring more staff in both specialist healthcare and community sectors, expanding nursing home capacities, and strengthening mental health services. With an aging population, it’s clear that the demand for healthcare is only going to rise. One doesn’t need a degree in economics to grasp that fact.
As someone who has depended on specialist healthcare for over 30 years, I’ve certainly felt the changes firsthand. Particularly over the last four to five years, wait times for treatments and consultations have grown significantly. Current healthcare providers are entrusted with less time per patient and become less accessible. This can foster feelings of hopelessness and anxiety—not just for patients, but also for dedicated healthcare staff, some of whom I’ve known for years. It’s disheartening to witness their hurried transitions between patients, as they shoulder immense responsibilities knowing that hasty decisions can have serious consequences. I’ve seen individuals leave their shifts, burdened by the knowledge they couldn’t provide the care they desired. Many, unable to cope with this relentless pressure, move on to different careers, resulting in a staggering loss of experience and knowledge in the healthcare sector. While advancements in technology and research undeniably improve treatment options and streamline tasks, they cannot replace the irreplaceable value of human interaction and compassion. Those with substantial backgrounds in healthcare are likely to have a deeper understanding of what it truly means to run a health organization at all levels.
As an old local saying goes, “Don’t jump higher than your staff can reach.” This seems like sound advice to keep in mind when evaluating future investments that come with hefty financial commitments. It could just as easily be interpreted as a stroke of good old Norwegian common sense!
By Grete Stenbro, Hauka
This version maintains the original content’s essence while enhancing readability and engagement.