Shocker

So I've been trying to secure Kela coverage for my Avonex. It's been a bit of a battle in that we were given some wrong information regarding what was required. I'll likely have to pay out of pocket for two months worth of the stuff. This was something I was prepared for, though, so although it is a "worst case scenario" sort of situation, it appears to be one I can handle. Plus, I'll be reimbursed most of the money I'll shell out.

Instead of dwelling on this setback, however, I'd like to mention something that nearly caused me to faint in shock. When I went to the doctor to get a referral to a neurologist at a medical center here in Lappeenranta, I brought about a hundred euros in cash with me. Since I'm not covered by the national social security system yet, I thought I'd have to pay a ton of money out-of-pocket. When they handed me a bill, which I had fourteen days to pay, it read 27 euros. The receptionist explained that this cost covered doctor's visits for the entire year, and would include all of the offices in the Southern Karelia region.

Yep, I love Finland for that alone.