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Helsinki eliminating healthcare centre fees

Helsinki is to eliminate fees for visits to the city's public healthcare centres next year. Meanwhile, more funding is to be channelled into dealing with substance abuse.

Asiakas odottaa päivystykseen
Image: Tommi Parkkinen/Yle

City government political groupings reached agreement on Friday in a 2013 budget.

At present a first visit to a public healthcare centre in Helsinki costs most patients 13.80 euros, and the fee may be charged up to three times a year. As of next year, visits will be free of charge.

The eliminated of healthcare centre fees will cost the city an estimated 2-3 million euros annually.

Meanwhile, the new budget includes increased spending on pre-school education, care for the elderly and for care services for substance abusers.

Sources: Yle