Healthcare & Health Insurance in Finland
Summary: Digital Nomads in Finland share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Finland, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Finland?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Finland, they replied:
"Finland offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, mental health services, and public health services. The public healthcare system in Finland is of high quality and is funded by taxes. All Finnish citizens and permanent residents are entitled to use the public healthcare system, and foreign residents are also eligible to use the system, provided they have a valid residence permit. Expats in Finland can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local health center and obtaining a Kela card, which is a personal health insurance card. The Kela card allows expats to access public healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescription medications," explained one digital nomad living in Finland.
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What is the quality of medical care in Finland like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Finland, they replied:
"In Finland, medical services are of a high standard and are easily accessible. The country has a comprehensive public health care system, which is free of charge for all citizens. The system is funded by taxes and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Finland also has a number of private health care providers, which offer more specialized services. In addition, Finland has a well-developed network of pharmacies, which provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," explained one expat living in Finland.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Finland?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Finland are generally considered to be of high quality and relatively affordable. All Finnish citizens and permanent residents are entitled to public healthcare, which is funded by taxes and is free at the point of use. Private health insurance is also available, but it is not necessary for most people as the public system covers most medical needs. Private health insurance can be beneficial for those who want more choice in their healthcare provider or faster access to certain treatments," said one member in Finland.
What are emergency services like in Finland?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Finland wrote:
"In Finland, emergency services are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services," explained one person living in Finland.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Helsinki is home to some of the best medical specialists in Finland. Other cities with a wide selection of medical specialists include Tampere, Turku, and Oulu. Additionally, the Uusimaa region, which includes the cities of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa, is known for its excellent medical care," explained one person living in Finland.
Are common prescription medications available in Finland?
"Prescription medications are widely available in Finland. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, with some requiring a prescription from a doctor. The Finnish government also provides subsidies for certain medications, making them more affordable for those who need them. In addition, Finland has a national health insurance system that covers the cost of many medications," remarked one member in Finland.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Finland?
"Finland has a high quality of medical care and facilities. The country has a comprehensive public health system that provides free medical care to all citizens and residents. The medical system is well-funded and staffed with highly trained professionals. Finland also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer a wide range of medical services. In addition, Finland has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. Overall, the quality of medical care in Finland is excellent and the country is well-equipped to handle any medical emergency," explained one expat living in Finland.
As a foreigner living in Finland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Finland, you will have access to public healthcare. Finland has a comprehensive public healthcare system that is funded by taxes and is free at the point of use for all citizens and residents. The healthcare system is highly rated and provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive care. The quality of care is generally very good, and the system is designed to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need," explained one digital nomad living in Finland.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Finland if they have access to public healthcare in Finland. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Finland during the pandemic have been positive overall. The healthcare system has been very responsive to the needs of the population, providing timely and effective care. The healthcare system has also been proactive in providing information and guidance to the public on how to stay safe and healthy during the pandemic. In addition, the healthcare system has been quick to respond to any new developments in the pandemic, such as the introduction of new vaccines. Overall, I have been impressed with the level of care and support provided by the healthcare system in Finland during the pandemic," said one foreigner in Finland.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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Finland Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Finland on our Finland forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
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Help others in Finland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Finland.
Digital Nomads in Finland offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Finland.
Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Finland.