Finland government proposes major healthcare and NGO budget cuts

The Finnish government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, is entering its final budget negotiations with proposals that include significant cuts to the social and health sectors. The Ministry of Finance has proposed an additional 50 million euro reduction in state subsidies for social and health organizations, on top of a previously decided 140 million euro cut. This would result in a 30 percent decrease in subsidies compared to the current year.

Nyyti ry has warned that these cuts could devastate the NGO sector, noting that municipalities and wellbeing services counties have stated they cannot fill the resulting gaps.

Simultaneously, the Finnish Medical Association is opposing proposed increases in healthcare patient fees, including a 20 percent rise in health center fees and new charges for specialized care. The association argues these costs will delay treatment and increase health inequalities. Furthermore, the government has proposed a 12 million euro cut to state reimbursements for medical and dental training, following a 15 million euro reduction earlier this year.