Injuries not covered

Not all adverse events that occur in connection with medical treatment and health care are compensated for, only bodily injuries that fulfil the conditions prescribed in the Patient Injuries Act.

Consequently, the following will not be compensated:

• Injuries that occurred outside the geographical area of Finland. From the beginning of 2021, the new Patient Insurance Act will be applied not only to health and medical care provided in Finland, but also to health and medical care provided abroad, if a public healthcare unit has arranged treatment abroad and it is necessary for ensuring the patient’s health. The Act does not apply to situations where a patient goes abroad to be examined or treated independently.
• Material damage, such as torn clothing or the loss of dentures. In these instances, the claimant may claim damages from the tortfeasor under the Tort Liability Act.
• Purely financial losses. This refers to economic loss that is not connected to bodily injury or material damage.
• Injuries occurring during ordinary assistance services (for example, domestic help) are not regarded as medical treatment and health care. Likewise, treatment and assistance and monitoring services connected to living in a residential care home are not covered by patient insurance.
• Insignificant injuries, even if they qualify for compensation on other grounds. An injury is considered insignificant if it causes the patient only slight pain and suffering, no permanent functional disability, no aesthetic injury, or the costs incurred do not exceed €200.