Annual healthcare fee hikes planned, raising concern for low-income groups

Finland’s government is preparing to link public healthcare fees to a new index from 2027, a move expected to drive up patient charges more frequently and at a faster rate than inflation. The planned reform will particularly affect pensioners and unemployed people, according to public health experts.

Under the proposal, health centre and social care fees will be tied to a welfare region cost index. This index, unlike inflation, is largely based on average earnings.