Occupational healthcare

Detailed explanation

Finnish law requires all employers to provide occupational healthcare for their employees. At minimum, this must include preventive healthcare focused on workplace safety and health risks, such as ergonomic assessments, workplace inspections, and health check-ups related to your job duties. Many employers go beyond the legal minimum and offer extended coverage that includes general practitioner services, specialist consultations, and even some dental care.

The services are typically provided through a private healthcare company that has a contract with your employer. Common providers include Mehilainen, Terveystalo, and Pihlajalinna. Appointments are usually available much faster than in public healthcare, often within days rather than weeks. The employer pays for these services, so they are free for employees.

When you start a new job, you should receive information about how to access occupational healthcare services. This typically includes details about the healthcare provider, how to book appointments (often through an app or online portal), and what services are covered under your employer's plan.

How it affects expats

• •Immediate access: You can usually use occupational healthcare from your first day of work

• •Faster service: This is often the quickest way to see a doctor in Finland

• •No Finnish required: Private providers often have English-speaking staff

• •Scope varies: Ask HR exactly what your plan covers; some employers offer full care, others minimal

• •Not for everything: Emergency care and many specialist treatments go through public healthcare

• •Family not covered: Occupational healthcare is only for employees, not family members

What's typically covered

• •Workplace health assessments

• •Ergonomic evaluations

• •Work-related illness treatment

• •Health check-ups for certain job types

• •General practitioner visits for any illness

• •Basic laboratory tests

• •Some specialist consultations

• •Mental health support

• •Physiotherapy

Practical tips

• •Download your provider's app for easy appointment booking

• •Keep the emergency contact number saved in your phone

• •Ask about sick leave certificates (sairauslomatodistus) procedures

• •Check if your employer covers prescription costs

Related terms

• •Kela — Finland's Social Insurance Institution

• •Terveysasema — Public health center providing primary healthcare services to residents of Finnish municipalities

• •Employment contract (Tyosopimus) — Your agreement with an employer covering duties, pay, working time, and key terms