The VAIVA service voucher for oral health care services is issued for a single semi-urgent condition, such as a cracked tooth or other oral health problem, that does not require emergency treatment. The voucher is valid for four months from the date of issue and covers the diagnosis, treatment plan and treatment realisation.
The service voucher allows customers to choose their dentist from among the approved service providers. The treatment package is always provided by a single service provider, meaning that the customer will receive the necessary examinations and treatment from the same provider.
"The VAIVA service voucher is easy and straightforward for customers to use. It supplements our services very well," Helsinki’s Director of Oral Health Care Sebastian Kaste says.
Cost of treatment communicated in advance
Treatment provided using a service voucher costs the customer the same as equivalent treatment provided by the City of Helsinki’s oral health care services. What are not covered are any dental laboratory costs, which the customer must pay for in accordance with the price list of the laboratory used by the service provider.
A dental service provider will present the customer with a cost estimate before treatment begins. The estimate includes details of the cost of treatment and any dental laboratory charges. If necessary, the cost estimate will be updated during the course of treatment.
Kela will not reimburse any client or appointment fees. The same policy also applies to oral health care services provided by the City of Helsinki. However, client and appointment fees may be taken into account as other basic expenses under income support on a case-by-case basis.
Treatment provided using a service voucher does not count towards the healthcare payment cap.
Customers praise the speed of access to treatment
“Based on customer feedback, the greatest benefits of the service voucher are quick access to treatment, the smooth running of the service and the opportunity to choose a clinic that suits you,” Sebastian Kaste says.
Many customers have said that they were able to access treatment quickly, without long waiting times.
"I received my service voucher straight away from Omaolo and managed to book an appointment for the following morning. It took 18 hours from first contacting healthcare services to my issue being resolved."
Customers also praised the opportunity to compare options and choose a dentist or clinic location that suits them.
"I was able to access good treatment quickly and had the option to choose from a wide range of providers."