työterveyshuoltopalveluihin

Työterveyshuolto, or occupational health care, is a system of medical, preventive, and promotive health services provided to employees by an employer or a contracted health provider. The term is most commonly used in Finland, where it is part of the national health care framework and is regulated by the Work Environment Act. The primary goal of työterveyshuolto is to safeguard and promote the health and safety of the workforce, thereby improving productivity, reducing absenteeism, and lowering health care costs for both employees and employers.

The services offered typically include workplace health risk assessments, vision and hearing tests, vaccination programmes, ergonomic consultations, and training in first aid and occupational safety. In addition, occupational health physicians may perform job-related medical examinations for new hires, monitor chronic conditions, and provide advice on work–life balance and stress management. Regular follow‑up visits are common, especially in high‑risk sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Employees can exercise their right to free preventive care by visiting the occupational health clinic of their employer or through a public health service that has agreed to a partnership. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health coordinates standards and quality indicators, ensuring that care is evidence‑based and patient‑centred. Financing generally derives from employer contributions, sometimes supplemented by national health insurance.

Empirical studies have shown that effective työterveyshuolto programmes correlate with lower rates of workplace injury, improved employee health outcomes, and higher job satisfaction. Internationally, many countries maintain similar systems under names such as occupational health services or workplace health promotion programmes. The concept continues to evolve, integrating digital health tools, data analytics, and personalized wellness plans to meet the changing demands of modern work environments.