Social security in Närpes
The Wellbeing Services County of Ostrobothnia is responsible for social and health care services in the municipality of Närpes. The Wellbeing Services County of Ostrobothnia is one of the 21 wellbeing services counties in Finland. The wellbeing services county is responsible for health and social services as well as rescue services in the area.
Medical care
In Finland and Närpes, health care is available to everyone. Cities and municipalities are responsible for developing, organizing and operating both primary and specialized medical care. In addition to public health services in Finland, private health services are available. All employers are responsible for providing voluntary preventive health screenings for their employees. Health care is inexpensive in Finland but not completely free. Most fees are covered by the patient’s home municipality and services such as visits to maternal and child health receptions, nurse consultations and primary care examinations are offered at no cost to residents. The fees for public health care are fixed. Private health care receptions set their own prices. National health insurance is part of the Finnish social security system and is provided by Kela, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. As a rule, all permanent residents of Finland and also anyone who moves to Finland to work are covered. When you move to Finland, visit a local registration office, tax office, Finnish expatriate authority or the Finnish Immigration Service, where you will receive a social security number. After that, you will receive your personal health insurance card, which is also called an Kela card. This card can be displayed at any pharmacy or clinic and you will be automatically reimbursed for any medical costs.
Occupational health care
In Finland, every employee has the right to occupational health care. In practical terms, this means preventive services that support an employee’s well-being throughout their career. Employers are also required by law to provide a healthy and safe work environment and prevent work-related illnesses and injuries. It is important to note that while employees are entitled to preventive health care, it is voluntary for employers to provide medical treatment beyond that. In Finland, employers shall arrange occupational health services for all workers in the undertaking. Length and form of employment are irrelevant. Occupational health services aim to promote workers’ health, work capacity and safety in the workplace.
