Municipalities of Savonlinna and Kemi challenge proposed cuts to hospital emergency services in Finland

Municipalities of Savonlinna and Kemi have asserted that proposed cuts to hospital emergency services would violate constitutional rights. In this context, both cities have submitted a memorandum to the Constitutional Law Committee of the Finnish Parliament. The government’s proposal aims to eliminate services such as nighttime emergency care at Savonlinna Hospital and Kemi’s West-Pohja Hospital, which would adversely affect surgical procedures as well.

Markus Hämäläinen, the administrative director and city attorney of Savonlinna, explained that the joint memorandum highlights that the changes would infringe upon the fundamental rights of residents. Specifically, it would jeopardize access to essential healthcare, as the Constitution guarantees individuals the right to necessary care for a dignified life.

The cities emphasize the distinct needs of their regions, including high disease prevalence and increased healthcare demands stemming from substantial tourist traffic. Reduced emergency services would also diminish equity among residents compared to other Finns.

Moreover, the memorandum argues that the legislative changes would significantly undermine local autonomy within welfare regions, as mandated by the Constitution. Hämäläinen expresses concern that this aspect has not been adequately addressed in the proposal. He hopes the memorandum prompts the Constitutional Law Committee to reflect deeply on these issues.

The cities have included an expert opinion from emeritus professor Kaarlo Tuori with their memorandum, and Hämäläinen suggests that the committee should invite Tuori to share his insights, which he believes are quite compelling.