Finnish public broadcaster Yle (Yle Lappi) reported on Santa’s Medical Van: Inari-based doctor Mikko Huokonen has turned a motorhome into a mobile medical clinic that drives to patients in Inari, Ivalo and Saariselkä.
The van carries modern, battery-powered diagnostic equipment, so appointments can be held even where there is no electricity. It also carries the gear needed in northern conditions, such as a shovel, sand and snow chains – so the helper doesn’t end up needing help.
Huokonen stresses that the mobile clinic complements, rather than replaces, the 24-hour emergency department in Ivalo. He has worked as a doctor in Lapland for over 15 years.
Access to services cannot depend on where a person lives or what their financial situation is.
Mikko Huokonen, Yle Lappi (translated)