Controversial healthcare bill passed in Parliament by narrow margin

The Parliament on Tuesday approved the controversial health care bill placed by the Kansallinen Kokoomus (National Coalition Party-NCP) led four-party alliance government by a narrow margin with the view to reduce the hospital emergency services.

The bill was passed by 101 votes to 96 where five lawmakers of the ruling alliance also cast votes against it.

Two lawmakers, however, remained absent.

The government has taken the move to reduce the healthcare facilities to save 27 million euros annually from the year 2026.

As per the new law, emergency 24-hour services will not be available at primary healthcare centres in many areas.

There will be only one university hospital or central hospital emergency unit for 24-hour service.

The law will also allow the authority to regulate which locality cans maintain the round-the- clock primary health care emergency services.