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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Finland | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Finland

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Oct 11, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Finland is generally considered to be very high. Finland has a comprehensive public health care system that provides free or low-cost medical services to all citizens. The country also has a well-developed network of private health care providers. In comparison to the US, Finland has a lower rate of infant mortality and a higher life expectancy. Emergency services in Finland are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, you can call 112 for an ambulance. The ambulance will be dispatched to your location and will provide medical care on the way to the hospital.

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How are healthcare services 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," said one expat.

What are medical services 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," commented one expat who moved to Finland.

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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," commented one expat living in Finland.

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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," remarked one expat living in Finland.

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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," wrote an expat 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," wrote an expat living in Finland.

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," said 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," mentioned one expat 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 an expat in Finland.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Finland?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Finland about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Finland before having a baby. Make sure to register with a local health center and find out what services are available to you. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in Finland and to plan ahead for any financial needs you may have during this time. It is also beneficial to connect with other expat parents in Finland to get advice and support. Finally, take advantage of the excellent healthcare and childcare services available in Finland to ensure the best possible start for your baby," remarked one in Finland.

Are healthcare services good in Finland?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Finland. They wrote:

"In Finland, healthcare services are provided by the public sector and are free of charge for all citizens. Healthcare services are comprehensive and include preventive care, primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and mental health services. The Finnish healthcare system is based on the principle of equal access to healthcare services for all citizens, regardless of their income or social status. The Finnish healthcare system is also highly decentralized, with local governments responsible for providing healthcare services in their respective regions. In addition, Finland has a strong focus on preventive care, with a range of health promotion and disease prevention initiatives in place," remarked one in Finland.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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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