In our ongoing series “MedTech Insights – Voices from Around the World”, we speak with our international partners about market conditions, current developments, and their visions for the future.
This time, we travel north to Finland — a country whose healthcare system is known for high standards, strong public structures, and a clear commitment to patient safety.
Our conversation partner is Taina Kunnasluoto from KaikoMedi, Entrhal Medical’s trusted partner in Finland.
A Market Shaped by Public Healthcare
The Finnish MedTech market is strongly influenced by public funding.
“The public sector operates with the help of state and municipal appropriations,” Taina explains.
This means that purchasing decisions are often linked to national and regional funding strategies — which can vary across the country.
Trend: Centralization of CSSD and Instrument Reprocessing
A clear development currently shaping the Finnish market is the centralization of instrument reprocessing.
“The maintenance of instruments from small units will be centralized in large hospitals,” says Taina.
This is leading to larger, more specialized CSSD departments with a strong focus on standardized workflows and quality assurance.
Patient Safety vs. Cost Efficiency
While cost efficiency matters, patient safety remains fundamental.
The balance between the two depends heavily on regional infrastructure and funding models.
Yet the commitment to safe practices remains a constant across the Finnish healthcare system.
A Partnership Built on Quality and Trust
When asked what the collaboration with Entrhal means, Taina answers clearly:
“Especially high-quality products and good customer service from us.”
Together, KaikoMedi and Entrhal work to provide solutions that support reliable sterile processing in hospitals across Finland.
Products in Focus: Heat Sealers and the New Container Testing Device
Certain Entrhal products are especially in demand:
“Heat sealers and accessories have the largest market share — and now we are also beginning to promote the new container testing device.”
This reflects Finland’s strong emphasis on reliable sterile packaging and process validation.
Challenges: Budget Constraints
One of the most significant challenges at the moment:
“Savings needs of the Finnish state budget.”
Even in a high-quality healthcare system, resources are not unlimited — making efficient, durable and safe solutions all the more important.
A Vision for the Future
For Kaiko, the direction is clear:
“It is an important sector for us, as we invest in high-quality products in our selection.”
Quality drives trust — and trust strengthens long-term partnerships.
Success Stories to Be Proud Of
Kaiko has contributed to several major hospital projects in Finland by supplying large numbers of Entrhal heat sealers:
- TYKS T2 Central Hospital → ~20 units
- HUS Jorvi Central Hospital → over 20 units
- Päijät-Häme Central Hospital → over 10 units
A strong example of shared success through reliable collaboration and customer-focused service.
Motivation in Everyday Work
What inspires Taina most?
“Nice customers, diverse working days, and training users.”
Human connection, expertise, and helping others succeed — this is where passion lives.
A Message to Healthcare Policy Makers
Her wish is clear:
“To ensure that patient safety is not compromised!”
A powerful reminder that behind every instrument, every workflow, and every process — there is a patient who depends on safety and trust.
Conclusion
Finland demonstrates how strong public healthcare, high quality standards, and reliable partnerships can come together to build better patient outcomes.
The long-standing cooperation between KaikoMedi and Entrhal Medical shows how shared values and consistent commitment shape meaningful progress in the MedTech field.
We thank Taina Kunnasluoto and the entire team at KaikoMedi for their trust, collaboration, and continuity over the years.