New pilot study begins in April 2025 – Reviews of care allowance for pensioners no longer require a medical statement if the recipient is in round-the-clock care

What will change?

• A medical statement no longer needs to be submitted together with the application for a review if the customer is already paid care allowance and lives in a facility that provides round-the-clock care.
• Previously, each application for a review had to be accompanied by a care allowance application and a medical statement issued less than six months ago. Now a carefully completed application will usually be enough, and there is no need to submit a medical statement. We may request additional information, if necessary.
• A medical statement must still be submitted when the customer applies for the care allowance for pensioners for the first time.

Where does the new process apply?

The new process will be introduced starting in April 2025 and will be used in the following wellbeing services counties during the first phase:

• Wellbeing services county of Vantaa and Kerava
• Kainuu wellbeing services county
• City of Helsinki

Why are we making this change?

• Faster processing: The application process takes less time because customers do not need to wait to be seen by a doctor or for the doctor to issue a medical statement. Kela also does not have to wait for the medical statement to be submitted separately.
• Fewer unnecessary medical statements: The new process will save time for doctors and other staff.
• Easier daily life: Less paperwork and waiting around for customers and their family members.
• A smoother workflow for wellbeing services county employees: No medical statement needed if the customer’s situation is clear-cut.

How to ensure smooth processing?

A carefully completed application will speed up processing and reduces the need for further clarifications. Fill in the application carefully and describe the following:

• the customer’s ability to function and need for assistance
• what treatments and services the customer needs

Kela provides instructions and an instructional video to help with completing the application for a review.