Finland healthcare fees to rise, impacting elderly most

An impact assessment from the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health reveals that rising healthcare customer fees will significantly affect approximately half of the population and 71 percent of households. On average, fees are expected to increase by about 95 euros annually per person, though some cases may see increases exceeding 500 euros per year.

The elderly are the most heavily impacted group. Approximately 44 percent of those aged 85 and older will face annual increases of over 100 euros, while 37 percent of those aged 75–84 will see similar rises. While higher-income individuals may see larger absolute increases due to long-term residential care costs, low-income individuals will face the greatest impact relative to their disposable income.

In response to rising costs, the Ostrobothnia Wellbeing Services County has announced that starting in 2027, residents may apply for fee reductions or waivers if they face extreme financial hardship. This measure aims to ensure that economic difficulties do not prevent individuals from accessing necessary social and health services, specifically targeting fixed-rate fees such as doctor visits, dental care, and short-term institutional care.