North Savonia welfare region plans to phase out child health clinic cards

The North Savonia welfare region is considering ending the use of paper-based child health clinic cards, a move that would save an estimated €8,330, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The proposal is part of broader cost-cutting measures in family and disability services. Kati Kantanen, director of the family and disability services sector, confirmed that the plan is still under preparation and no final decision has been made.

While Finnish law does not require the use of physical health clinic cards, Kantanen acknowledged their long-standing practical and sentimental value for families. She noted that essential child growth and development data is already recorded electronically in patient information systems, and the absence of paper cards would not disrupt services.

If implemented, the region would ensure families retain easy access to their child’s records. Alternative solutions are being evaluated as part of the planning process.

Tanja Airaksinen (SDP), chair of the family and disability services board, supports the reform, emphasizing the need for cost-effective implementation while addressing user needs and staff workflow. She called for prompt assessments of potential digital alternatives, including long-term costs and data security.

Additional savings are being sought by delaying the purchase of psychological assessment tools and restricting travel.