Potilasvahinkoja

Potilasvahinkoja are injuries or damages that occur to patients during medical treatment or healthcare services in Finland. These damages may result from medical errors, negligence, or unforeseen side effects of treatments or procedures. The Finnish Compensation Scheme for Patients, managed by the Finnish Patient Insurance Centre (Potilasvakuutuskeskus), handles claims related to potilasvahinkoja.

The purpose of the scheme is to provide compensation to patients who suffer harm from healthcare services without requiring proof of negligence. To be eligible, the injury must be directly related to medical treatment and must have caused a lasting or significant impairment. Common examples include surgical errors, medication mistakes, diagnostic inaccuracies, and adverse reactions to treatments.

Patients or their representatives can file a claim with the Finnish Patient Insurance Centre, which assesses the validity of the injury and determines compensation based on the severity and impact of the harm. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, loss of income, and in cases of permanent injury, additional compensation for suffering.

The system emphasizes patient safety and aims to encourage healthcare providers to maintain high standards of care by ensuring accountability. It also provides a collective safety net, reducing the financial burden on individual patients in cases of healthcare-related injuries.

Potilasvahinkoja are an important aspect of the Finnish healthcare framework, reflecting a commitment to patient rights, safety, and fair compensation. The process is designed to be accessible and impartial, ensuring that those affected by healthcare damages receive appropriate support and recognition of their injuries.