Finland faces record health center closures this summer amid staffing shortages
This summer, Finland has seen a record number of health center closures, leading to potential long waits for non-urgent medical care well into autumn. Jukka Mattila, the head of the medical policy division at the Finnish Medical Association, is not surprised by the unprecedented summer shutdowns. According to a study conducted by Yle, over 160 health centers in mainland Finland are temporarily closed this summer, with staffing shortages cited as the primary reason for more than 120 of these closures. The situation affects nearly all welfare regions.
Mattila suspects that the financial pressures within these welfare regions may also play a role in the closures. These regions have stated they are reducing the number of health centers throughout Finland. He argues that it is essential to test how these reductions impact service availability and what practical challenges arise. However, Mattila expresses confusion regarding the decision to address budget issues by closing health facilities instead of reinforcing basic healthcare services.
The Finnish Medical Association believes the current number of medical graduates is adequate but does not oppose increasing training spots if quality is ensured. Currently, about 700 medical professionals graduate each year, with an additional 200 studying abroad.
Mia Laiho, vice-chair of the Social and Health Committee, acknowledges the need to live with summer closures while ensuring citizens remain aware of where to access services. She highlights that the main reason for closures in smaller towns is workforce shortages during summer vacations, which are temporarily filled by part-time workers and students who require support.
Laiho emphasizes the importance of having permanent staff who know the community, even as welfare regions work on finding substitutes amid seasonal fluctuations in healthcare needs, especially with many residents relocating for the summer.