Mittekindlustus

Mittekindlustus is an Estonian term referring to the absence of insurance coverage, particularly health and social insurance, within a population. It describes a situation in which a person does not hold a valid insurance arrangement through public programs, employer-based schemes, or private insurers. The concept is used in welfare and health policy discussions to highlight gaps in protection against illness, unemployment, and other life risks.

In health care systems that combine mandatory and voluntary insurance, mittekindlustus can mean limited access to services or higher out-of-pocket costs for individuals without coverage. Depending on the country, there may be emergency care obligations or reduced eligibility for certain services for the uninsured. Policy responses often aim to reduce these gaps through universal coverage, subsidies, or safety-net provisions to improve financial protection and access to care.

In Estonia, the health insurance system is connected to residence and income, and most residents participate in health insurance. However, gaps can occur for groups such as the long-term unemployed or those without a stable income. Mittekindlustus is thus a focal point in discussions about ensuring access to care and financial protection for vulnerable populations, as part of broader debates about the adequacy of social security and health systems.

See also: kindlustus, health insurance, social security, universal health care, uninsured.