haigekassale

Haigekassa, or the Estonian Health Insurance Fund, is a state institution in Estonia that administers the country’s compulsory health insurance. It collects health insurance contributions, allocates payments for insured medical services, and pays sickness, maternity, and other health-related benefits. The agency also reimburses medicines and certain medical devices and maintains records of insured persons and their entitlements.

The institution operates under the Health Insurance Act and related legislation, with oversight by a government-appointed management board. Its activities are financed primarily from a combination of employer and employee social contributions and government support. Haigekassa coordinates with health care providers, pharmacies, and public authorities to ensure access to services and timely reimbursement.

Key functions include determining eligibility for benefits, processing and paying for medical services, hospital care, and medicines; funding preventive services and chronic care programs; and maintaining national health information systems. In Estonia, Haigekassa participates in the country’s digital health ecosystem, including electronic prescriptions and online user portals that allow insured individuals to view entitlements, claims, and reimbursements.

History and role: Following Estonia’s independence, health insurance financing evolved toward a unified public health insurance system, with Haigekassa becoming the central institution for health insurance administration. Today it continues to adapt to demographic and fiscal changes while supporting access to care and the integrity of health benefits. See also Estonian health insurance and Haigekassa.