Falling ill and rehabilitation

All regular residents in Finland are entitled to sickness insurance compensation. When someone is ill and unable to go to work, loss of earnings is covered by a daily sickness allowance. If the employer pays wages or salary for the period of sickness, Kela will pay the daily sickness allowance for the corresponding period to the employer. Part of the cost of prescription medicines is reimbursed by national health insurance.

Information about illnesses and recommendations for treatment can be found on various Internet websites. A physical illness can result in the need for mental support. Assistance can be sought from health care professionals and parishes and various patient organisations.

Sickness and disability can be prevented or treated through rehabilitation. The aim of rehabilitation is to promote people’s functional capacity, wellbeing and employment prospects, and to encourage them to continue living at home.