Helsinki’s chief emergency physician discusses improvements in Finland’s emergency medical system

Helsinki’s chief emergency physician, Katja Peräjoki, recently discussed the challenges and improvements within Finland’s largest emergency medical system. For years, the system struggled with a vast number of emergency calls, leading to situations where all ambulances in Helsinki were dispatched simultaneously, forcing citizens to wait for assistance.

The number of emergency service calls has nearly doubled over the past two decades, although Helsinki’s population has not increased at the same rate. The peak occurred in 2022 with 64,000 emergency calls, translating to about 175 requests per day. During the worst times, emergency staff had no time for meals, equipment maintenance, or training.

Initial relief came during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, but by May 2021, the number of emergencies surged again, as people became more inclined to call for help. To address the root causes, Peräjoki noted the importance of public education about when to contact emergency services versus healthcare centers.

Significant changes in emergency response strategies have led to a notable decrease in unnecessary ambulance rides, effectively reducing the emergency service workload. A revised risk assessment protocol at the emergency center allows for more effective dispatching, resulting in about 40,000 fewer ambulance transports in the first half of this year compared to the previous year. The chief of the emergency center also emphasized that emergency services are not to be treated like taxis, prompting callers to consider alternative transportation for non-critical situations.

Peräjoki has been actively involved in developing and leading the emergency services, while balancing her responsibilities with ensuring the welfare of her team. Despite the challenges, she recognizes the value of teamwork and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.