Health services abroad
EU legislation secures your right to obtain treatment in another EU or EEA country, the United Kingdom or in Switzerland if you suddenly become ill or need treatment for a pre-existing chronic condition during your stay. You can also seek treatment in these countries. However, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland are not legally obliged to treat you if you travel there independently to access healthcare services.
Falling ill abroad
If you need urgent medical care while abroad, call the emergency number or go to the nearest hospital. The emergency number in all EU countries is 112.
I want to go abroad for treatment
You are free to travel and use health care services abroad. You are entitled to access treatment in another EU or EEA country in the same way as the residents of the country. You can seek services of both primary health care and specialised medical care and you can also receive treatment for a chronic condition.
Moving abroad
When you move abroad, your entitlement to treatment is determined according to the country of destination, and the purpose and duration of your residence. You can request Kela to determine your right to treatment in Finland in connection with a move to an EU or EEA country, the United Kingdom or to Switzerland. When you move abroad, the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) registers the municipality of residence.
Using health services abroad
You are free to seek and use health care services abroad. You are entitled to access treatment in another EU or EEA country in the same way as the residents of the country.
Special treatment situations abroad
This section provides information about special treatment situations abroad, including pregnancy and childbirth, treatment of chronic diseases, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and reference networks for rare diseases.
Country-specific information about health services
The country-specific information concerning healthcare services is intended to assist you when you travel abroad and need treatment because you have suddenly fallen ill. The information is also helpful if you are travelling from Finland to use healthcare services abroad.