Health Care in Vaasa
Summary: Learn about the health system in Vaasa: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Vaasa.
The system in Vaasa, offers both public and private options for residents and expats alike. With a focus on providing high-quality care, the city's healthcare facilities cater to various medical needs, including emergencies and major surgeries.
Finland's Healthcare System
Finland's public healthcare system, known as the National Health Service (NHS), is available to all residents, including foreigners. Public hospitals in Vaasa are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. A visit to a public hospital in Vaasa typically involves a clean and efficient environment, with a focus on patient care. Foreigners, such as expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Finland, provided they have the necessary documentation. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs, as they often offer shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Private hospitals in Vaasa are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, with modern facilities and highly trained staff.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Vaasa
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Vaasa include:
- Vaasa Central Hospital (public) - located in the Hietalahti district
- Mehiläinen Vaasa (private) - a multi-specialty clinic located in the city center
- Terveystalo Vaasa (private) - another multi-specialty clinic in the city center
In case of limited options in Vaasa, expats may need to travel to nearby cities such as Seinäjoki or Kokkola for specialized medical care or surgeries. These cities are approximately 75-100 kilometers away from Vaasa by car.
Emergency Services in Vaasa
Ambulance services are available in Vaasa, and they can be reached by calling the emergency number 112. The response time for ambulances is generally quick, but delays may occur in certain situations or during peak hours.
Health Insurance Companies in Vaasa
Popular private health insurance companies in Vaasa include If, LähiTapiola, and Pohjola. These companies offer various insurance plans and coverage options for residents and expats. However, many expats and digital nomads may choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers instead of local companies, as they often provide more comprehensive coverage and cater specifically to the needs of foreigners living abroad.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


