Doctor embraces diverse role in healthcare at municipal center in Aura, Finland

Liina Mäkinen, who graduated as a doctor two years ago, often spends her workdays alone at a health center in Aura, Finland. In small communities, physicians are expected to work independently and manage all municipal patients, regardless of age or health issues, which some find burdensome. However, Mäkinen views it as one of the job’s advantages.

She runs a maternity clinic and manages a nursing home, in addition to working in general healthcare. In larger cities, physicians in training often do not have such diverse roles. Mäkinen believes that an individual’s personality influences their approach to this type of work. “Some find it suitable to know a little about many things and learn along the way; others prefer to master one area in detail. I enjoy being able to care for a variety of patients,” she stated.

Aura, located in southwestern Finland, has approximately 4,000 residents, and Mäkinen also oversees Pöytyä, which is twice the size of Aura. A small team of doctors and staff work in these two municipalities. Mäkinen appreciates the camaraderie and community among the staff, noting that “everyone knows each other, and discussions are straightforward.”

Mäkinen acknowledges that a strong doctor-patient relationship develops in smaller towns, where patients tend to seek care at local health centers, benefiting both parties as doctors become familiar with their patients.

Although many small municipalities face a shortage of doctors and offer significant financial incentives to attract them, Mäkinen chose a position in a smaller town over a temporary role that provided higher pay. Her current monthly salary is about 5,000 euros without additional benefits. With a record number of health centers closing this summer due to a lack of substitute doctors, she remains content with her decision, emphasizing that factors like job satisfaction and suitability often outweigh financial considerations.