välfärdsområde
Välfärdsområde is a Finnish term that translates to "welfare area" or "well-being services county." It refers to a large, self-governing administrative entity established in Finland to organize and provide public social and healthcare services. These areas were created as part of a significant reform of the social welfare and healthcare system, which took effect in 2023. The primary goal of establishing välfärdsområden is to ensure equitable access to high-quality services across the country, regardless of a resident's location.
Each välfärdsområde is responsible for a defined geographical region and is governed by an elected council.