Erikoishoito

Erikoishoito is a Finnish term for specialized medical care or treatment provided in hospital settings that require advanced expertise, equipment, or multidisciplinary teams. It forms a distinct level within publicly funded health care in Finland, operating alongside primary health care (perusterveydenhuolto) and is largely organized as erikoissairaanhoito, i.e., specialized hospital care, by hospital districts. In everyday use erikoishoito and erikoissairaanhoito are often used interchangeably, although the formal term in policy documents is erikoissairaanhoito.

Scope and examples: Areas such as cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, pediatric subspecialties, intensive care, radiology, childbirth and neonatal care, transplantation, and complex surgeries fall under erikoishoito. It also includes comprehensive diagnostics, intensive or long-term rehabilitation and other high-specialization treatments that cannot be provided in primary care.

Access and process: Most people reach erikoishoito through referral by a primary care physician or a municipal health service unit; some urgent cases are routed directly via emergency services. The aim is to ensure appropriate and timely care, though waiting times can vary by district and service type. After assessment, care plans may involve hospital-based treatment, outpatient clinics, or transfer to a specialized center.

Organization and funding: The responsibility for erikoishoito lies with hospital districts and municipalities, within the Finnish public health care system. Financing comes mainly from public funds, with care provided regardless of income; there can be minor patient charges for certain services. Private providers may offer complementary specialized services.

Outlook: Finland continues to develop erikoishoito through centralization of high-complexity services, regional cooperation, and digital referrals to improve access and efficiency while maintaining equity.