Imagine AI donning a white coat, equipped with a stethoscope – it’s not just science fiction anymore. In Finland, AI is taking bold steps into the healthcare sector, offering the potential to revolutionise how social and healthcare professionals work. And Finland is at the forefront of this transformation, actively seeking innovative ways AI can enhance the lives of both professionals and patients.
Jarmo Pulkkinen from DigiFinland is leading the charge, coordinating the AI ecosystem initiated by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. The network brings together actors from the public, private, and third sectors, and the ministry is funding AI trials in the wellbeing services counties with up to three million euros. From his front-row position, Pulkkinen senses the growing excitement around AI spreading throughout the wellbeing services counties.
“With over 150 different organisations involved – from municipalities and companies to educational institutions – we’re quickly building a collaborative network. Our goal is to bring healthcare professionals and AI developers together to create real-world solutions that make a tangible difference,” Pulkkinen explains.
For the Finnish government, AI isn’t just a buzzword. It’s seen as a crucial part of the broader digital transformation aimed at solving the mounting challenges in healthcare. Before launching the AI ecosystem, an extensive study identified key areas where AI could make the biggest impact in the sector.
Real solutions, not just hype
Healthcare professionals, especially doctors and nurses, are seeking genuine improvements to their work, not more tech buzz. AI offers a way to reduce administrative burdens, freeing up more time for patient care. From diagnosing illnesses to predicting service needs, AI is already playing a supportive role in various healthcare tasks.
We’re after entirely new ways to leverage AI.
“For instance, AI that recognises speech and records diagnoses during a doctor’s appointment is almost ready for widespread use,” Pulkkinen says. “But we’re not just looking for more of the same, we’re after entirely new ways to leverage AI.”
However, not all digital solutions in Finland’s healthcare system have been warmly received. Clunky patient information systems and overly complex software have left many healthcare professionals frustrated. Pulkkinen, who has been involved in healthcare digitalization since the early 2000s, recalls being astonished when he saw the potential of AI firsthand.
“People need to experience the real value of AI. Everyone deserves that ‘wow’ moment – whether it’s realising AI can save time in home care or improve decision-making. Small innovations that ease daily tasks are just as valuable as large-scale national projects,” Pulkkinen says.
Overcoming barriers to AI adoption
Despite the excitement, challenges lie ahead. One major hurdle is the flow of information within the highly fragmented healthcare sector, where organisational silos and strict regulations often slow progress. Breaking down these barriers will require a nationwide health information repository and better co-operation between the state and regional authorities.
The safe and ethical use of AI is another key concern, particularly regarding patient privacy and data security. Pulkkinen acknowledges that while legal safeguards are essential, overly rigid interpretations could hinder innovation.
“For AI to truly help a doctor make better decisions, it needs access to patient information. Right now, something as simple as a missing consent form can block this access. This is why data security, privacy, and legislation play such an important role in this initiative,” he adds.
Can Finland lead the AI healthcare revolution?
While AI’s primary goal is to address Finland’s healthcare bottlenecks, the country is well-positioned to develop competitive solutions for global markets. With healthcare spending accounting for nearly 20% of the GDP in the U.S., for example, the demand for AI-driven solutions is skyrocketing.
Pulkkinen believes that Finland, with its advanced healthcare infrastructure and collaborative culture, has the perfect conditions to lead this revolution.
“If we can’t do this in Finland, then where? We’ve got the right attitude, cutting-edge technology, and a strong spirit of co-operation. We’re seeing experts collaborate across sectors with ease,” he says.
AI is set to become a key player in healthcare, and as new applications emerge, its impact will be felt in the years to come. Improved accessibility, higher quality care, and more efficient services are all on the horizon.
With enough creative digital tension, we can truly harness the potential of AI in healthcare.
Pulkkinen is confident that, despite the challenges, the collaboration between government authorities, companies, educational institutions, and wellbeing services counties will pave the way for AI’s success in Finland:
“We’ve got a glass-half-full mentality, and that’s what inspires me. With enough creative digital tension, we can truly harness the potential of AI in healthcare – both in the short term and for generations to come.”
AI plays a key role in many of the technology trends identified by DNA for 2025. What else can we expect from the rapid evolution of technology? Download the Technology Trends 2025 report!
