Finland’s Kela card now largely unnecessary for healthcare reimbursements

The physical Kela card has become almost obsolete in Finland, as most healthcare reimbursements can now be processed using standard identification, according to a report by national broadcaster Yle.

Only a few situations remain where a standard ID document is insufficient for direct Kela reimbursement, said Antti Klemola, a legal expert at the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela).

A major change took effect at the start of last year, when private healthcare providers gained the ability to verify patients’ eligibility for Kela reimbursements in real time through electronic systems—provided they have an agreement with Kela.

“Private service providers have already widely adopted these agreements,” Klemola noted.

Pharmacies have long accepted standard ID or printed prescriptions alongside the Kela card for direct reimbursements on prescription medications.

While Kela previously explored replacing the plastic card with a digital solution, such as a mobile app, no immediate changes are planned. However, Klemola acknowledged that digital alternatives may be reconsidered in the future.

“No rapid changes are underway, but at some point, digital solutions to replace or complement the Kela card will likely be discussed,” he said.

The card remains in use for now as a physical sickness insurance certificate.