People aged 65 and over can see a Lähilääkärit GP for the same fee as at a public health centre
15.08.2025
Access to primary healthcare services has been a widely discussed topic in Finland in recent years. In many areas, it has been particularly difficult to get an appointment with a doctor. The government is now looking for new solutions to this challenge.
The Freedom of Choice trial for people aged 65 and over will start on the same day that Lähilääkärit opens its first clinics – 1 September 2025. We are excited to participate in this trial, which will continue until the end of 2027. Lähilääkärit’s mission is to make it easier for people in Finland to see a doctor, and this trial aligns perfectly with that goal.
What does the trial mean?
Under the Freedom of Choice Trial, people aged 65 and over can visit a participating private general practitioner for the same fee as in public primary healthcare – around €28. Kela will cover the rest of the cost. Both GP visits and the laboratory tests included in the trial have set maximum prices. For these laboratory tests, the customer pays half of the cost.
The number of reimbursable visits is limited: in 2025, the reimbursement will apply to up to two GP visits per person; in 2026 and 2027, up to three visits per year are covered. Appointments can also take place remotely via teleconsultation.
In practice, this means that those in the target group can see a GP without delay whenever needed. Customers can book appointments directly with any participating private GP. At Lähilääkärit, all our GPs take part in the trial, so you are free to choose any of our doctors.
Our expectations
Our affordable pricing makes it easier than ever for more people to see a private doctor. We believe that the Freedom of Choice Trial will introduce many new customers to private healthcare services. When you choose Lähilääkärit, you can be confident that if you need laboratory tests not covered by the trial, you can still have them done with us at a reasonable price.
We aim to meet our customers’ expectations and earn their trust, so that they will return to us in the future. One of the great rewards of general practice is building long-term doctor–patient relationships. It is easier for both sides to work together when you know each other. We are your doctor close to you – and, if you wish, your personal doctor.
We also want to contribute to developing the Finnish healthcare system. For the trial to succeed, it is essential that it produces better health and wellbeing both for individuals and for society as a whole. We look forward to following customer feedback and Kela’s research on the trial’s impact.
Welcome to Lähilääkärit’s clinics in Kalasatama and Itäkeskus from 1 September 2025! Book your appointment here.
