The Federation of Finnish Enterprises (Suomen Yrittäjät) interviewed doctor and entrepreneur Mikko Huokonen, who founded Santa’s Medical Van in December 2025. In northern Lapland the nearest emergency department can be up to 160 kilometres away – so the service comes to you.
The clinic serves both residents and tourists in Ivalo, Inari, Saariselkä, Kakslauttanen and Kiilopää. The van covers around 150 kilometres a day, and in winter temperatures can drop to –40 °C.
On board are, among other things, a portable ECG device, sampling equipment, orthopaedic supports and medicines, and wounds can be stitched on the spot. You can make a reservation, or the doctor can visit your home or hotel.
People have thanked us and been happy that services are brought close to them.
Mikko Huokonen, Yrittäjät (translated)