Medical complaint — Aluehallintovirasto · Finland

Direct answer

Start with the complaints officer of the hospital or practice — every provider must have one, and most issues are resolved there with an explanation or apology. If not, Aluehallintovirasto — kantelu (avi.fi) is the independent body for patient complaints in Finland: free, and it can investigate. Concerns about a doctor's fitness to practise go to Valvira (valvira.fi). For compensation after a treatment error, Potilasvakuutuskeskus or a lawyer — and ask for your full medical file first, which you are entitled to.

Call firstAluehallintovirasto — kantelu

Report toValvira

If that failsPotilasvakuutuskeskus

🗣️ What to say

"On [date] I was treated at [provider] by [name]. I want to make a formal complaint about [what happened]. I request a written response, and a copy of my complete medical file."

🪜 Step by step

Ask for your fileYou have the right to a copy of your records. Get it before anything else; it is the evidence.
Complaints officer firstIn writing, with dates and names. A response within a set time is mandatory.
Not resolved: Aluehallintovirasto — kanteluThe patient ombudsman or complaints commission investigates independently and free of charge.
Professional conduct: ValviraThe medical council or disciplinary board deals with the doctor's conduct, not with your compensation.
Compensation: PotilasvakuutuskeskusLiability claims run through the provider's insurer or a compensation scheme; deadlines apply from the moment you knew of the harm.

📇 All contacts

Aluehallintovirasto — kanteluHandles complaints about care, free and independentWhen the reminder to the provider did not help🔗 avi.fi/asioi/henkiloasiakas/kantelu

ValviraSupervises health professionals in serious casesFor serious errors and fitness concerns🔗 www.valvira.fi

PotilasvakuutuskeskusCompensation for patient injuries without courtWithin three years of the injury becoming apparent📞 040 450 4590 🔗 www.pvk.fi

❓ Frequently asked

Can I switch doctor during the complaint?

Yes, at any time. The complaint does not affect your right to care.

Is there a deadline?

Complaints: usually none, but sooner is stronger. Compensation claims: often 3–5 years from discovery. Ask Aluehallintovirasto — kantelu.

They say the file is "internal"

It is not. Your medical records are yours to read and copy; refusal is itself a complaint for Aluehallintovirasto — kantelu.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

🔎 Common searches

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“complaint about doctor Finland”
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“hospital complaint procedure”
“medical error compensation Finland”
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