Healthcare in Finland

Introduction to Finland’s Healthcare System

Finland is known for its high-quality, accessible healthcare system, offering medical services through public health centers and private clinics. Expats, travelers, and foreign residents need to understand how to navigate the Finnish healthcare system, including public services, private care options, and insurance requirements. Whether using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), private medical insurance, or direct payments, knowing how to access the right care is essential.

Public Healthcare in Finland

Finland’s public healthcare system ensures that all legal residents receive medical care regardless of their financial status. Municipal health centers (terveysasemat) provide primary care, while district hospitals (sairaalat) handle specialized treatments.

Services Covered in Public Healthcare:

• General medical consultations for illness and chronic conditions

• Preventative care, screenings, and vaccinations

• Maternity and child healthcare

• Mental health services and counseling

• Emergency medical treatment

• Home care services for the elderly or disabled

Accessing Healthcare as an EU/EEA Citizen

Visitors from EU/EEA countries can access state-funded healthcare using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which allows them to receive medical care under the same conditions as Finnish residents.

Important EHIC Considerations:

• The EHIC does not cover private healthcare.

• It does not include medical evacuation or repatriation.

• Some services may still require co-payments.

Healthcare for Non-EU Expats and Visitors

Expats and visitors from non-EU countries must secure private health insurance before traveling to Finland. Private medical insurance provides access to private clinics, faster specialist care, and coverage for unexpected medical expenses.

For routine healthcare needs, Travel Doctor offers telehealth consultations, providing access to medical professionals remotely. Visit Travel Doctor for more details on available services. For a full list of treatable conditions, check Travel Doctor’s treatment options.

Medical Costs and Patient Fees

Although public healthcare in Finland is tax-funded, patients are still responsible for certain medical fees. These fees are set by municipalities and vary based on services received.

Standard Patient Fees (2024):

• Doctor’s consultation at a health center: €23 per visit (charged up to three times per year).

• Annual out-of-pocket cap: Patients are exempt from further fees after reaching the annual limit.

• Hospital inpatient care: €49.60 per day.

• Subsidized dental care for residents.

Kela Card and Social Security Benefits

The Kela card is Finland’s national health insurance card, required for residents to access reduced-cost medical care. Expats must register with Kela (Finnish Social Insurance Institution) to receive the card. The Kela card is also necessary for discounted prescription medications.

Private Healthcare in Finland

While Finland’s public healthcare system is highly regarded, many expats prefer private medical services due to shorter wait times and better access to English-speaking doctors. Private healthcare is especially popular in Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku.

Advantages of Private Healthcare:

• Faster access to specialists

• More English-speaking doctors

• Higher quality of care and service

Emergency Medical Services in Finland

In case of a medical emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Emergency care is available to everyone, but non-residents may be billed for treatment unless covered by insurance.

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Finland

Expats looking for English-speaking doctors can use the following resources:

• Public healthcare listings from municipal health services.

• Private medical clinics offering international patient care.

• Travel Doctor’s telehealth platform for virtual medical consultations.

In-Person Medical Services for Expats

For those needing in-person medical consultations, Travel Doctor has partner clinics in key international 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 Healthcare in Finland

• Public healthcare is available to all residents, but visitors must use private services.

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

• Non-EU visitors should have private health insurance for medical coverage.

• Emergency medical assistance is available via 112.

• Telehealth consultations via Travel Doctor offer a convenient alternative to in-person care.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can expats access free healthcare in Finland? Expats with a Kela card can access subsidized healthcare. Non-EU visitors need private insurance for medical care.

2. What is the cost of seeing a doctor in Finland? A doctor’s visit at a public health center costs €23 per visit, with an annual cap on fees.

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

4. Can I use an EHIC card in Finland? Yes, EHIC holders can receive public healthcare under the same conditions as Finnish residents.

5. Where can I find an English-speaking doctor in Finland? You can visit private clinics, municipal healthcare listings, or use Travel Doctor’s telehealth services.

For seamless access to healthcare, expats can use Travel Doctor’s telehealth services or visit one of the partner healthcare providers listed above.