Significant increase in private healthcare reimbursements in Finland: Over €50 million paid out in early 2024

By admin On Aug 19, 2024

LEHTIKUVA

In the first seven months of 2024, reimbursements for private healthcare appointments in Finland saw a significant surge, with the total amount exceeding €50 million. This marks an increase of more than €31 million compared to the same period in 2023, when reimbursements totaled around €19 million.

The notable rise in reimbursements follows the adjustment of reimbursement amounts by Kela, Finland’s social insurance institution, which took effect on January 1, 2024.

Under the new rates, Kela now reimburses €30 for in-person doctor visits, €25 for video consultations, and €8 for phone or chat consultations. Previously, all types of visits were reimbursed at a flat rate of €8.

Between January and July 2024, a total of 1,062,869 individuals received reimbursements for private doctor visits, reflecting a modest 1.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023, when 1,049,482 people benefited from these payments.

The growth in the number of reimbursement recipients was observed in most of Finland’s welfare regions, with the most significant increases occurring in Åland, South Ostrobothnia, and Central Ostrobothnia. However, some regions, including Helsinki, South Karelia, Kainuu, Kymenlaakso, Southwest Finland, and the Vantaa and Kerava areas, saw a decline in the number of recipients.

It is important to note that previous reports published between March and June 2024 contained calculation errors that led to inflated figures for the number of people receiving Kela reimbursements. These errors have been corrected in the updated infographics for January to July 2024.

This increase in reimbursements highlights the growing reliance on private healthcare services in Finland, possibly driven by the improved compensation rates and the need for flexible healthcare options in a changing medical landscape.

Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi