HUS announces significant healthcare fee increases in Uusimaa starting January

The HUS cooperative, which oversees specialized healthcare in Uusimaa, has announced significant increases in service fees starting at the beginning of next year. As of January 1, fees for outpatient specialized healthcare will rise by 45%, while inpatient care costs will see an average increase of 22.5%. Additionally, short-term psychiatric inpatient care will now incur charges, although outpatient psychiatric services will remain free of charge. However, fees will be applied for missed or cancelled appointments.

According to HUS, recipients of guaranteed pensions and those under debt restructuring plans will continue to receive relief on these fees. The increases will be set to the maximum allowed by law. In a meeting held on Monday, the HUS management board approved the budget for 2025, alongside a financial plan covering 2025-2027 and an investment plan for 2025-2028. The vote on these matters was closely contested, passing with a narrow margin of 9-8.

The rationale behind these decisions includes efforts to achieve necessary savings. HUS reports that next year’s budget proposal aims for a surplus of 176.7 million euros, which is intended to offset deficits from fiscal years 2022-2024 in compliance with legal requirements. Additionally, 140 million euros in adjustment measures have been earmarked for next year, which includes a reduction in the level of investments.

The final decisions on these matters will be made during the HUS assembly meeting scheduled for December 19.