HUS year 2024: Patient care
During the year, we treated 710,589 patients in all. One of them was the first hand transplant patient in Finland.
We started 2024 with a tight budget framework that did not include funding for reducing the waiting lists. However, through careful management, we were able to increase service production and shorten the waiting lists. The number of people who have waited for treatment for more than 180 days fell by 18.1% compared to the previous year.
The number of patients treated, non-urgent referrals and medical service production all increased from the previous year.
Our Net Promoter Score (NPS) was 80.
Finland’s first hand transplant
The hand transplant surgery conducted in November went according to plan. Finland’s first hand transplant was preceded by a long preparatory phase.
HUS hand, plastic and transplant surgeons, transplant physicians, pathologists, anesthetists, nurses in various units, and specialist employees prepared for the operation over several years.
Year of change for childbirths
At the end of November, childbirth services in Lohja Hospital were transferred to other HUS maternity hospitals. The relocation of childbirth services from Lohja Hospital was based on the HUS service network decision and the need for financial adjustment.
At the end of November, the new Aallokko labor unit opened in the renovated premises of Women’s Hospital. The new labor unit will provide a soft and family-friendly environment for those giving birth who have not been diagnosed with any pre-existing risk factors.
Magnet Hospital Recognition to the Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Heart and Lung Center
The Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Heart and Lung Center received Magnet Hospital Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The recognition shows that the quality of care, patient safety and job satisfaction of nurses are at a proven excellent level. The Comprehensive Cancer Center was the first hospital in the Nordic countries to be awarded this recognition.
- HUS Comprehensive Cancer Center has been awarded the international Magnet Hospital Recognition for excellence in nursing
- HUS Heart and Lung Center awarded with the Magnet Hospital Recognition
New implantable cardioverter-defibrillators for children and adults
Finland’s first next generation extravascular implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) were implanted at HUS for an adult and a child. The next generation device combines the best aspects of a traditional transvenous and the newer subcutaneous ICDs. In addition, the New Children’s Hospital implanted the first conduction system pacemaker for a pediatric patient.
Administration of RSV antibody to newborns started
In the fall, HUS hospitals started administering nirsevimab, an antibody against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), to newborns and at-risk groups. The RS virus is the most common cause of respiratory infections in small children leading to hospitalization.
Changes in the functions of Raseborg Hospital
Raseborg Hospital’s 24-hour primary health care emergency department changed from September 2 to an emergency clinic with extended opening hours. In February 2024, the HUS Joint Authority Executive approved a plan to gradually transfer the functions of Raseborg Hospital to the Western Uusimaa wellbeing services county by the beginning of 2025.
Construction of Oak Hospital completed
At the end of November, the Oak Hospital, located near the Meilahti hospital campus, was completed. The hospital focuses on treating eye diseases. Oak Hospital will open in May 2025.
Patient care in figures
In 2024, we treated a total of 710,589 patients in HUS specialized healthcare and at emergency departments. We received nearly 360,000 referrals for non-urgent care and had nearly 260,000 emergency clinic visits.
Access to treatment and waiting times
During the year, access to treatment improved, but the waiting lists for assessment and treatment are still long. Waiting times vary according to specialty.
Laboratories and imaging
Laboratory and imaging service production increased. Patient satisfaction remained at a high level. The likelihood of clinicians and clients to recommend laboratory and imaging services increased significantly.
Quality and patient safety
During the year, we improved matters associated with self-monitoring and data protection. All our medical care units have drawn up their own self-monitoring plans.
Updated: 04.04.2025