Accessing public healthcare and social services in the Helsinki Capital Region is determined by two critical administrative steps: obtaining a Personal Identity Code and securing Municipality of Residence status through the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV).
The organization of healthcare and social services in the Helsinki Capital Region (Helsingfors, Esbo, Vanda, and Grankulla) is unique in Finland, as responsibility is split between three distinct public authorities – Wellbeing Services County (WSC):
- City of Helsinki: Retains full municipal responsibility for organizing all healthcare and social services for its residents.
- Western Uusimaa Welfare Area (LUVN): A Wellbeing Services County (WSC) responsible for residents of Esbo and Grankulla.
- Vanda and Kervo Welfare Area (VAKE): A WSC responsible for Vanda and Kervo residents.
City of Helsinki
City of Helsinki provides a comprehensive range of social, health, and rescue services.
Services Provided: Primary healthcare (Health Stations), dental care, mental health, substance abuse treatment, rehabilitation, and specialized care (geriatrics, psychiatry) in the city’s own clinics.
Western Uusimaa (LUVN) – Esbo & Grankulla
LUVN is responsible for residents of Esbo and Grankulla.
Services Provided: Residents access primary care through local Health Stations (e.g., Grankulla Health Station ), which cover outpatient care, oral health, and maternity/child health clinic services.
Vanda and Kervo (VAKE)
VAKE serves Vanda and Kervo residents.
Services Provided: VAKE organizes general healthcare and social services, including social work within child protection and specialized services for families.