What Is the Lægevagt and When Should You Use It in Denmark?

What is the Lægevagt?

The lægevagt is not for life-threatening emergencies—that’s what you call 112 for—but it’s the right place to turn when you:

Suddenly fall ill after GP hours
Need a prescription renewed urgently
Are unsure whether to wait until morning

The service is available Monday–Friday after 4:00 PM, weekends, and public holidays.

How does it work?

You must call first—you can’t just show up. The phone number varies by region. When you call:

A nurse or doctor will assess your condition.
You may receive medical advice by phone.
You might be asked to visit a regional clinic.
In some cases, a doctor may come to your home.

Interpretation services are often available if you don’t speak Danish—ask for help when you call.

Example

You wake up with a high fever and severe throat pain on a Sunday. Your GP is closed. You call the lægevagt and speak to a doctor who advises you to come to the clinic for a throat swab and possibly antibiotics. They book a time for you the same day.

Quick Tips for Expats

Always call before visiting—check your regional lægevagt number online.
Have your CPR number ready when you call.
Use this service only for urgent issues that can’t wait.
For life-threatening emergencies, call 112 instead.
You must bring your yellow health card (sundhedskort) if visiting in person.