Region Nordjylland is closing psychiatric inpatient beds in Frederikshavn and Thisted, converting part of the capacity into round-the-clock residential places. The regional council is due to make the final decision on September 28.
The closures at the two local psychiatric units are described by Arbejderen, which reports on the changes in Region Nordjylland. The plan removes inpatient beds in both towns and replaces part of the capacity with residential places.
According to DR, reporting on August 27, the region considered closing 32 psychiatric beds in total. That figure covered 16 beds each in Frederikshavn and Thisted, with six replacement beds created in Brønderslev.
DR also reported that the two local units would keep 10 beds each. Those places were intended for psychiatric patients who have completed treatment and need support returning to everyday life.
A later proposal changed the shape of the plan. As reported by TV2 Nord on September 19, the Frederikshavn and Thisted units would be converted into “Psykiatriens Hus” with 12 round-the-clock residential places. The places would target patients who do not require a doctor physically present at the bedside.
Doctor shortage behind the change
TV2 Nord links the change to Region Nordjylland’s planned end to the use of long-term substitute doctors from January 1, 2027. The region expected 16 fewer psychiatric specialist doctors from the New Year.
In reporting from September 21, TV2 Nord stated that only 0.81 specialist doctors would remain in Frederikshavn. The staffing figures form part of the background to the regional proposal.
The revised plan was set to go before the regional executive committee first. Per TV2 Nord, the final decision rests with the regional council on September 28, 2026.
Travel distances questioned
DR reported on the travel consequences for residents in the affected areas. Some residents could face more than 100 kilometers to reach a psychiatric inpatient bed, according to the broadcaster.
DR’s coverage also included concerns that a closure presented as temporary could become permanent. Those concerns were raised in connection with the region’s plans for the two units.
Region Nordjylland has previously moved to expand parts of its psychiatric services, including additional funding to cut waiting times. General information on the Danish system is available in our guide to Danish healthcare.
