One call can prevent emergency room overcrowding, doctor asks why patients don’t use it

Healthcare districts in Finland are urging patients to contact emergency services by phone or chat before arriving in person, as many cases can be resolved remotely.

In Kymenlaakso, 40 percent of emergency room patients last year arrived without prior contact. The national emergency advice line, Päivystysapu 116117, resolves over half of cases during the first call, allowing patients to avoid waiting times. If an in-person visit is needed, prior assessment can speed up treatment by up to an hour.

Kimmo Salmio, chief physician of acute services in Kymenlaakso, noted that while the current figures are not poor, there is significant room for improvement. Unannounced arrivals contribute to congestion in emergency departments.

The free Päivystysapu 116117 service, available nationwide except in the Åland Islands, provides medical advice for urgent health issues. In life-threatening situations, the emergency number 112 should be used instead.

In cases where a visit is necessary, pre-assessment ensures faster care. For example, in the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa (HUS), emergency visits are on average one hour quicker if the patient has first contacted Päivystysapu and their details are pre-recorded.