Practical guides to life in Finland.
17 17 guide found for “healthcare”
Healthcare
Healthcare in Finland: The Basics
Finnish healthcare is high-quality, well-organised, and largely affordable. Here is how to navigate it as a newcomer.
Emergencies in Finland: What to Do and Who to Call
In an emergency in Finland, call 112. Here is how emergency services work and what to do in different situations.
Pregnancy and Childbirth in Finland
Finland has some of the best maternity care in the world, and it is practically free. Here is how the system works from the first trimester to bringing your baby home.
Dental Care in Finland
Dental care in Finland is partly subsidised but works differently from general healthcare. Here is how to access it and what it costs.
Vaccinations in Finland
Finland has a comprehensive national vaccination programme. Here is what you need to know as a newcomer.
How do I register with a public health centre (terveyskeskus)?
Public health centres are tied to your municipality of residence. Once you are registered at an address in Finland (DVV), you are automatically entitled to public health services in that municipality.
How does the Kela card work and how do I get one?
The Kela card proves your entitlement to Finnish social security. You need it when visiting public healthcare or when buying prescription medication at the pharmacy (it gives you the national health insurance discount).
How much does a doctor visit cost in the public system?
Public healthcare visits have small patient fees set by municipalities. A GP visit at a health centre typically costs around 20-40 euros per visit.
Where do I go for mental health support in Finland?
Start with your local health centre - ask for a referral to a mental health nurse (mielenterveydenhoitaja) or psychologist.
What is the difference between terveyskeskus, sairaala, and päivystys?
Terveyskeskus (health centre) is your primary care / GP service for non-emergency issues. Book an appointment for illnesses, referrals, and preventive care.
How do I get prescription medication in Finland?
You need a Finnish prescription (resepti) from a doctor. Prescriptions are electronic in Finland (eResepti) - stored digitally and accessible by any Finnish pharmacy.
What is occupational healthcare (työterveys) and do I have access to it?
Employers in Finland are legally required to arrange occupational healthcare (työterveys) for their employees.
Can I get dental care through the public system in Finland?
Adults have the right to public dental care through municipal health services, but in practice there are often very long waiting times in cities.
What vaccinations are recommended or required in Finland?
Finland has a national vaccination programme. Children receive vaccinations free of charge covering DTaP, MMR, polio, Hib, rotavirus, pneumococcal, HPV, and others through neuvola and school health services.
What are my options if I need mental health support quickly?
For immediate crisis: call the crisis line 09 2525 0111 (24/7) or the national helpline 116 123.
How does the Finnish maternity healthcare (äitiysneuvola) system work?
Pregnant women are entitled to free maternity care through neuvola from early pregnancy until after birth.
Benefits