According to the Health Care Act (1326/2010, sections 51–52), a health care professional shall assess the need for treatment no later than on the third (3) working day from when the patient first contacted the health centre or dental care provider.
Any treatment deemed necessary in connection with the assessment of the need for treatment shall be provided within a reasonable period of time, in any case within three (3) months of the assessment. This maximum period of three months may be extended by a maximum of a further three months in cases involving oral health care.
In cases involving specialised medical care provided in connection with primary health care, an assessment of the need for treatment shall be commenced within three weeks of the care unit receiving notification that a patient has been referred. Any treatment shall be provided and begin within a reasonable period of time, taking into consideration the urgency of the case, and in any case within three (3) months of the need for treatment having been ascertained.
The availability of non-urgent (non-emergency) care at the Health Care Services for Prisoners, status on the 5 of October 2023.
Outpatient clinics
Patients are able to get in contact with the clinics immediately. A health care professional will carry out an assessment of the need for treatment within three days since contacted by a patient. Patients are usually able to get an appointment with a nurse on the same day. Treatment deemed necessary on medical grounds is provided within one month.
Oral health care
Patients are able to get in contact with oral health care providers immediately. A health care professional will carry out an assessment of the need for treatment within three days since contacted by a patient. The examination and treatment of patients needing urgent attention is realised as required by the law. Appointments with dentists and oral hygienists will typically occur in one (1) month after the initial contact.
Psychiatric Prison Hospital
Patients are referred to the Psychiatric Prison Hospital by a physician. Referrals are processed within 1–7 days since receiving them and patients have access to care within 1–3 weeks, depending on urgency. Patients have been provided with guaranteed access to healthcare within the time required by law and there have been no long waiting times.
Prison Hospital
Patients are referred to the Prison Hospital by a physician. Referrals are processed within 1–7 days since receiving them and further information is requested if necessary. Patients have access to care within three (3) months, taking into consideration the urgency of the case. Patients have been provided with guaranteed access to healthcare within the time required by law.