Central Finland secures €230 million in savings through evaluation process

Central Finland has become the first welfare region in Finland to complete its evaluation process, identifying over €50 million in annual savings required through 2030, Yle reports.

The welfare region must now implement a total of €230 million in savings by the end of 2030, including this year. The regional council approved the evaluation group’s final report and its proposals last week.

“These are essentially demands,” said Tony Melville (SDP), chair of the regional council. “There’s always the threat that if we fail to comply, we could face a regional restructuring assessment or legal action from the Ministry of Finance.”

Piia Vuorela, director of the Central Finland welfare region, took office less than two months ago after her predecessor was effectively dismissed for slow progress on fiscal reforms. She emphasizes the moral responsibility to use taxpayer funds efficiently.

“We were reminded of that through this evaluation process,” Vuorela said.

The Ministry of Finance has initiated evaluation procedures for the welfare regions of South Ostrobothnia, South Karelia, and Kymenlaakso. Vuorela advises transparency: “It’s worth providing all your data analytically and openly.”

Savings measures already underway include cuts to health and social service stations, hospital wards, dental clinics, and maternity clinics, approved by the regional council in December 2025. Further annual savings of around €50 million are still needed.

“We’re reviewing all our operations,” Vuorela said. “Whatever we do must deliver welfare, health, or safety benefits. If it doesn’t, we shouldn’t be doing it.”

Digitalization is a cross-cutting theme in the action plan, with a target of over 50% of social and healthcare contacts occurring digitally by 2030. Vuorela notes that alternative access, such as phone or in-person services, will remain available for those unable to use digital channels.

Central Finland’s social and healthcare costs are higher than the national average, partly due to a greater reliance on institutional care for the elderly. The region is exploring lighter, home-based or community living solutions to reduce long-term care needs.