New Video Explains the Swedish Biobank Act

In a new video from Biobank Sweden, citizens can learn more about biobank samples. The video explains why samples are stored, how they are used in healthcare and research, and why they are important.

The Swedish Biobank Act (2023:38) protects both samples and donors and emphasizes the importance of providing information to anyone who provide a sample within the healthcare system. The Act states that healthcare providers in Sweden are responsible for informing all patients about the regulation and the individual rights of the donor either beforehand or in connection with their medical visit.

– We have created this video to help healthcare staff to fulfil the information requirement set out in the Swedish Biobank Act. The video highlights the most important parts which the patients need to be informed about, and should be seen as a complement to the national information package previously published by Biobank Sweden and 1177 when the Act came into force back in 2023. We hope the video can be shown on digital screens at primary care centres and hospitals, says Sonja Eaker Fält, Chairperson of Biobank Sweden’s National Advisory Board.

Increased Public Awareness of Biobanks

Another important purpose of the video is to increase public knowledge about biobank samples and biobanks. The main reason that samples are stored in biobanks is for the benefit of patients’ care and treatment, both now and in the future.

– We believe there are many people out there who do not know why it is important to store samples in biobanks and that there is an act which protects donors. Hopefully, the video can increase knowledge and the understanding of the role of samples, not only for individual health but also for the health of others, says Linda Paavilainen, Head of Education within Biobank Sweden.

A video to share

The video about the Swedish Biobank Act is available in both Swedish and English. We encourage you to share the video with friends and colleagues.

Watch the video in English: The Swedish Biobank Act – protection you today and in the future

Watch the video in Swedish: Biobankslagen – trygghet för dig, idag och i framtiden

If you need access to the actual video file for use within your local biobank or other organisation, contact Biobank Sweden at info@biobanksverige.se.