Reviews of care allowance for pensioners can now be processed without a medical statement if the recipient is in round-the-clock geriatric 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 geriatric care 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
• Note: A medical statement must still be submitted when the customer applies for the care allowance for pensioners for the first time.
   

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 out the application carefully and describe the following:

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

Read the instructions and watch our instructional video on how to fill out the application for a review:

Instructions (pdf)
Video (youtube.com, in Finnish, subtitles in English)