New legal requirement: General practitioners must offer video consultations by 2026 – how to get started?

Starting in 2026, it will be legally required in Norway for all general practitioners to offer video consultations as an equal alternative to physical appointments.
This is a major and important change aimed at making it easier for patients to get in touch with their doctor – regardless of where they live or what challenges they face.

But what does this actually mean for you, and how can you get started easily?

Why Video Consultations?

Video consultations aren’t just about technology – they’re about making healthcare more accessible and flexible for everyone. Many patients save time and stress by avoiding travel, and for some, being able to get help from home can be absolutely essential.

It’s simply a better way to meet patients where they are.

The Legal Requirement – In Short

By 2026, all general practitioners must:

• Offer video consultations as an equal alternative to in-person visits
• Ensure the service is secure, user-friendly, and accessible to everyone – including people with disabilities
• Integrate video consultations into the daily workflow – not as a separate or complicated process

How to Get Started?

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are the key steps:

• Choose a video platform that actually works – It should be easy to use for both doctors and patients. No app downloads, major investments, or code changes required
• Ensure it’s accessible for everyone – Supports screen readers and simple navigation so anyone can use it
• Make it fit into your workflow – Booking and conducting video consultations should be as easy as regular appointments
• Provide training and information for staff and patients – So everyone feels confident with the new solution
• Test and improve along the way – Don’t be afraid to try it out and continuously improve the service

Try Confrere – Free and Commitment-Free

Confrere is built with healthcare professionals in mind.

Our platform is safe, simple, and accessible – and best of all? Your patients don’t need to download anything or create an account. Just one click, and they’re in the consultation. Confrere is a fully European solution, with a secure platform where all third-party providers are based in Sweden and Norway. That ensures data privacy and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

You can try Confrere for free here before making a decision. No commitments – just an easy way to get started.

In Summary

Digital healthcare is here to stay, and the legal requirement means that now all general practitioners must follow suit. With the right tools and a bit of preparation, you can offer patients a safe, simple, and accessible solution that makes life better – both for you and your patients.