Comprehensive Guide to Healthcare for Expats and Visitors in Finland

Introduction to Finland’s Healthcare System

Finland offers a high-quality healthcare system that serves both its citizens and foreign residents. Healthcare services in Finland are provided through municipal public healthcare centers and private medical providers. Expats, visitors, and travelers should understand how to access medical care, whether through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), private health insurance, or out-of-pocket payment.

Public Healthcare System in Finland

Finland’s public healthcare system ensures that all permanent residents have access to medical services, regardless of financial status. Primary healthcare services are provided through municipal health centers (terveysasemat), while specialized care is handled by district hospitals (sairaalat).

Key Features of Public Healthcare in Finland:

• Primary care: Consultations with general practitioners (GPs), health education, maternity and child welfare, screenings, and vaccinations.

• Specialist care: Referral-based services such as dental care, mental health services, and emergency treatment.

• Emergency care: Available at hospitals for urgent cases.

• Home care services: For elderly or disabled individuals requiring assistance.

Healthcare for EU/EEA Nationals

Visitors from EU/EEA countries can access state-provided medical care in Finland using a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This allows them to receive healthcare under the same conditions as Finnish citizens.

Important Considerations for EHIC Holders:

• The EHIC does not cover private healthcare services.

• The card does not include medical repatriation.

• Travelers should still consider travel insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Healthcare for Non-EU Visitors and Expats

Non-EU travelers and expats must secure private health insurance before arriving in Finland. Private insurance ensures access to specialist care, private clinics, and faster medical attention. It is also required for residency applications in Finland.

For primary care and telehealth consultations, Travel Doctor provides an accessible option. Expats and travelers can consult with medical professionals via Travel Doctor. For a list of treatable conditions, visit Travel Doctor’s treatment options.

Patient Fees and Healthcare Costs in Finland

While public healthcare in Finland is partially funded by taxes, patients are still responsible for certain fees. Municipalities charge patient fees for doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and certain medical procedures.

Maximum Patient Fees (2024):

• Doctor consultation at a public health center: €23 per visit (up to 3 visits per year).

• Annual out-of-pocket limit for public healthcare: Once exceeded, further care is free (except short-term institutional care).

• Hospital stays: €49.60 per day.

• Dental care: Costs vary but are subsidized for residents.

Kela Card and Social Security in Finland

The Kela card is Finland’s social security card, required for residents to access subsidized medical care. Expats must register with Kela (the Finnish Social Insurance Institution) to receive a Kela card. It is also needed to receive prescription medications at reduced prices in pharmacies.

Private Healthcare in Finland

While public healthcare is widely available, many expats prefer private healthcare for faster access, shorter waiting times, and English-speaking medical professionals. Private hospitals and clinics are more common in major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku.

Advantages of Private Healthcare in Finland:

• Shorter wait times for specialist care.

• Greater availability of English-speaking doctors.

• Higher-quality service and patient-centered care.

Emergency Medical Care in Finland

In case of a medical emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Public hospitals offer urgent care to all individuals, but non-residents may be billed for treatment unless covered by insurance.

Finding a Doctor in Finland

Expats and travelers looking for English-speaking doctors can use the following options:

• Public healthcare directories from Finnish municipal health services.

• Private healthcare providers offering services in multiple languages.

• Telehealth services from Travel Doctor for virtual consultations.

In-Person Medical Services for Expats

Expats can also access in-person healthcare at Travel Doctor’s partner clinics in select cities:

• Paris, France: American Medical Center Paris

• Budapest, Hungary: Expat Medical

• Berlin, Germany: Arztbesuche

• Bucharest, Romania: Expat Medical

• Lisbon, Portugal: Umed Clinic

• Krakow, Poland: Doctor Krakow

• Athens & Crete, Greece: Doctor Athens

• Telehealth in Argentina & Mexico: Travel Doctor ES

Summary: Key Takeaways on Finland’s Healthcare System for Expats

• Public healthcare is available to all permanent residents, but non-residents must use private healthcare or insurance.

• EU/EEA nationals can access Finnish healthcare using an EHIC card.

• Non-EU travelers should obtain private health insurance before visiting Finland.

• Emergency medical assistance is available by calling 112.

• Telehealth consultations via Travel Doctor provide an alternative to in-person care.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can expats access free healthcare in Finland? Expats with a Kela card qualify for subsidized healthcare. Non-EU visitors must pay for services or use private insurance.

2. What is the cost of visiting a doctor in Finland? A public healthcare doctor’s visit costs €23 per visit, with an annual limit on fees.

3. What should I do in a medical emergency in Finland? Dial 112 for emergency assistance. Public hospitals provide urgent care.

4. Can I use the EHIC card in Finland? Yes, EHIC holders can access state healthcare under the same conditions as residents.

5. How can I find an English-speaking doctor in Finland? Use private healthcare providers, public directories, or Travel Doctor’s telehealth services.

For a seamless healthcare experience, expats can utilize Travel Doctor’s telehealth services or visit one of the in-person healthcare providers listed above.