Photo: Matti Vartiainen
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Helsinki’s social, health and rescue services recorded millions of resident interactions in 2024, as shown in the city’s newly released annual report. Residents gave the services high marks, while staff satisfaction also remained strong despite budget constraints.
The year included major reforms, facility openings, and service improvements, all implemented while cutting costs through an ongoing restructuring programme.
In total, Helsinki’s social and health care services reported over 24 million contacts through the Maisa client portal and recorded the following physical service encounters:
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3.7 million home care visits
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1.6 million care days in long-term elderly care
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1.4 million nurse appointments at health centres
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875,000 doctor appointments at health centres
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480,650 dental care visits
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795,000 care days in mental health housing services
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743,400 care days in homeless services
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306,000 care days in disability services housing
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296,500 visits to maternity and child health clinics
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273,000 outpatient psychiatric care visits
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18,400 adult social work clients
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53,000 emergency medical responses and 8,000 rescue missions
Clients rated the services favourably, with a net promoter score of 64, up significantly from the previous year. Staff also expressed high confidence, with 79% stating they would recommend the city as an employer.
Feedback highlighted a sense of purpose, strong teamwork, and fair leadership. Managers received praise for their supportive approach and consistent communication.
In 2024, Helsinki launched several new facilities and programmes, including the Helsinki Diabetes Centre, the Mieppi mental health service in the city centre, and the Siltamäki support unit for disability services.
New models were also introduced, such as digital follow-up care for gestational diabetes and a family care model for elderly residents. The city eliminated queues in dental services and improved mental health care for young people. Mobile nurse services helped reduce emergency calls and hospital visits among elderly residents.
The year was marked by tight financial conditions. Helsinki’s restructuring plan saved €70 million by reducing the use of leased office space, cutting out
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
