An evaluation group recommends ending advanced specialized healthcare in Central Finland. Critics note the group lacks local hospital experts with long-term experience in the region's medical services.
The group presented its findings on Tuesday. It urged the wellbeing services county to abandon demanding specialized medical care and extensive research activities.
Central Finland's wellbeing services county entered the evaluation process in June. The county faces severe financial difficulties.
The Ministry of Finance appointed all evaluation group members. Government Counsellor Minna-Marja Jokinen from the ministry explained the selection process. She said the welfare area law regulates the group's composition. Representatives come from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, the Ministry of the Interior, and the wellbeing services county itself. The chairperson must be independent from all ministries and the welfare county.
This situation highlights a common challenge in regional healthcare decisions. Expert voices closest to the services sometimes remain unheard during crucial evaluations.
The proposal could dramatically reshape healthcare access for Central Finland residents. People might need to travel longer distances for complex medical treatments.