Talnabrunnur – Issue 2 2026

-Automatic translation

In the latest issue of Talnabrunnur, key indicators of healthcare services are analysed, offering insights into essential aspects of the health system, recent trends, and comparisons with Nordic countries. The findings show positive developments in healthcare investment, increased participation in screenings and vaccinations, and improved outcomes in the treatment of certain acute health conditions. Despite this, Iceland still remains below the Nordic average in several key areas, and challenges persist in staffing, medication use, and antibiotic prescribing. At the same time, many indicators suggest that preventive measures and acute care perform well compared with neighbouring countries.

OECD health statistics offer a comparable framework for evaluating the state of the Icelandic healthcare system in an international setting. The statistics rely on standardised definitions and enable trustworthy comparisons of key health indicators, expenditures, and service quality across countries, thereby enhancing the interpretation and utility of these indicators.

The authors of the articles are Sigríður Haraldsd Elínardóttir, Arnar Sigbjörnsson and Guðrún Kristín Guðfinnsdóttir

More information
Kjartan Hreinn Njálsson, Assistant to the Medical Director of Health
kjartan.h.njalsson@landlaeknir.is