The Danish competition authority, led by Director Jakob Hald, has announced the creation of a new oversight unit as part of the government's elderly reform. This unit aims to ensure that private elderly care providers can compete on equal terms with municipal services, which is essential for attracting more private providers to meet the growing demand for elderly care in Denmark.

Starting July 1, the independent oversight unit will monitor the pricing set by public authorities for private elderly care services. This initiative follows the new elderly law passed in December last year, which expands the authority's oversight capabilities under competition law.

As the elderly population in Denmark continues to grow, the need for more care homes and home care services is increasing. However, recent statistics indicate a decline in the number of care homes, with only 41 homes per 1,000 people over 67 years old in 2021, down from 57 in 2010.

The oversight unit will specifically oversee pricing for various elderly care services, including care homes, personal assistance, and meal services. Under competition law, anyone can file a complaint with the unit if they suspect that a public authority has set unreasonably low prices.

The competition authority has also prepared a draft guidance document on how to file complaints under competition law, which is currently open for consultation until August 29, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on the draft guidance.