Finnish Strategy for Healthcare and Social Welfare Code Systems provides direction for semantic interoperability

Authors

• Mikko Härkönen Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Data and Analytics, Helsinki
• Pia Liljamo Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Data and Analytics, Helsinki
• Juha Mykkänen Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Data and Analytics, Helsinki
• Toni Suutari Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Data and Analytics, Helsinki
• Heikki Virkkunen Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Data and Analytics, Helsinki

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23996/fjhw.178753

Keywords:

classification, data accuracy, healthcare, social welfare, terminology, vocabulary, controlled

Abstract

Finland has long been a forerunner in producing structured client data, yet gaps remain in data quality, usability and national guidance. To support interoperable services, the Finnish Strategy for Healthcare and Social Welfare Code Systems 2025–2030 outlines a plan for strengthening semantic interoperability through coherent governance of classifications, terminologies and value sets. The strategy identifies key priorities, including the adoption of international code systems such as SNOMED CT (Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms), ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases, version 11), and LOINC (Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes). The strategy aims to enhance data quality and reusability while supporting service provision, information management and effective use of health and social welfare data both in Finland and within the broader European context.