The North Ostrobothnia welfare area, referred to as Pohde, is set to equip a fleet of ambulances with advanced tools to limit unnecessary emergency visits, particularly for elderly and multi-ill patients living far from healthcare facilities. This initiative responds to recent cuts in emergency services at two hospitals in the region, with the primary goal to make healthcare more accessible for those in need. By enabling paramedics to conduct laboratory tests, such as blood tests, at the patient's home, the program intends to alleviate the burden on emergency departments.

The new technology, known as point-of-care testing, will be implemented in ambulances located in the coastal and southern regions of North Ostrobothnia, particularly focused on the areas of Kalajoki, Ylivieska, and Haapajarvi, by the summer. The approach has already demonstrated success in Oulu and Ii, where it has been used over the past few years. This expansion reflects a shift in the healthcare service model in response to evolving community needs, aiming to maintain high-quality care despite logistical challenges.

Elina Heikkinen, the area director for emergency care and geriatrics at OYS, emphasized that this initiative is crucial given the recent restructuring of emergency services that has left many communities with limited access to healthcare. She outlines the intention behind the based model’s expansion to areas most affected by service cuts, underscoring a commitment to ensuring that residents receive timely care without unnecessary strain on emergency departments.