Easier access to free health checks for the unemployed in Western Uusimaa
Health checks for unemployed people have been reformed across the entire wellbeing services county following the centralisation of the service into a new unit. Access to health checks is now faster and more self-directed than before. The new operating model supports the health and work ability of unemployed people from the start of unemployment and offers a choice of in-person or remote health checks.
The Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County is reforming health checks for the unemployed by introducing a centralised service that provides quicker access and receive early support to maintain health and work ability. The service is free of charge and intended for all working-age unemployed residents of Western Uusimaa who are not covered by student or occupational healthcare.
Easier access, more flexible options
In the past, health checks were provided at health stations alongside other duties, resulting in long queues and difficulties to obtain appointments. The service has now been centralised into one unit, where full-time public health nurses are responsible for conducting the checks.
“Centralisation enables significantly faster access to care. Appointments are typically available within approximately three weeks, which marks a clear improvement,” says Service Line Director Tapio Nieminen. He adds that the reform also addresses the employment services’ need for up‑to‑date information on clients’ work ability and functional capacity.
Health checks are available both in person and remotely, giving clients more choice and facilitating access to the service. Remote appointments were rarely used in the past. In-person appointments are provided in Espoo, Lohja, Kirkkonummi, Karis, Hanko, Karkkila and Nummela.
Service Supervisor Thijs Verbrugghe emphasises that the aim of the reform is not only to streamline the process but also to provide holistic support for jobseekers.
“For many, becoming unemployed is a major life change, and early support is the most valuable investment. By carrying out health checks right away, we can identify health and rehabilitation needs early and prevent problems from becoming prolonged,” Verbrugghe says. He notes that, for many, the health check is also their first contact with healthcare once occupational health coverage ends.
Regular health checks support work ability
The health check follows a standardised format. Public health nurses review clients’ educational background, employment history, health status, mood and self-assessed work ability. When required, clients are referred to further examinations, treatment or formal work ability evaluations.
Access to the service is available after just one day of unemployment through the digital service platform Lunna or by phone at 029 151 2000, Mon–Fri, 8:00–16:00. Digital access to the service through Lunna will be available from 28 January.
“Our aim is to act as a safety net for work ability, particularly for those facing long-term unemployment. Regular health checks help prevent health risks from accumulating and support efforts to break the cycle of social exclusion,” Nieminen says.
- Lunna