Työterveys (Occupational Healthcare)

Detailed explanation

Finnish law (Occupational Health Care Act) requires all employers to provide at minimum preventive occupational healthcare services. This mandatory component includes workplace health risk assessments, health check-ups related to work conditions, guidance on workplace ergonomics and safety, and support for maintaining work ability.

Many employers go beyond the minimum and offer comprehensive medical care through työterveys, including general practitioner consultations, specialist referrals, laboratory tests, and sometimes mental health services, physiotherapy, and dental care. The scope of services varies by employer and is typically outlined in your employment contract or company policy.

Occupational healthcare is free for employees — the employer bears the cost. Kela reimburses employers for a portion of occupational healthcare expenses, which incentivizes providing good services. Major occupational healthcare providers include Terveystalo, Mehiläinen, and Pihlajalinna.

How it affects expats

• •Free for you: All occupational healthcare services are free

• •your employer pays

• •Often faster: Appointments are typically available within days, much faster than public health centers

• •Check your coverage: Ask your employer or HR about the exact scope of your työterveys

• •it varies significantly between employers

• •English service: Major providers in cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku often have English-speaking doctors

• •Starting a new job: Your employer should inform you about työterveys arrangements during onboarding

• •Mental health: Many comprehensive työterveys packages include psychologist or therapist visits

Key details

• •Mandatory: Every employer must provide at least preventive occupational healthcare

• •Voluntary extensions: General medical care, specialist access, dental, mental health

• •varies by employer

• •Cost: Free for employees

• •Major providers: Terveystalo, Mehiläinen, Pihlajalinna

• •Access: Typically by booking online or calling the provider directly

Related terms

• •Terveyskeskus (Health Center) — public primary care

• •Sairausloma (Sick Leave) — sick leave rules

• •Lääkärintodistus (Medical Certificate) — doctor's certificate