PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication that can prevent HIV infection after a potential exposure. It must be started within 72 hours — the sooner the better.

First Step: Call 116 117

116 117 is Finland's national medical helpline (Päivystysneuvo), available 24/7, free of charge. When you call, explain that you may have been exposed to HIV and need PEP assessment. They will:

  • Assess your situation by phone
  • Direct you to the appropriate emergency department (päivystys)
  • Tell you what to say when you arrive

This call takes 5–10 minutes and ensures you go to the right hospital. If you're uncertain which ER to go to, always call 116 117 first.

Where to Go in Helsinki

HUS Päivystys — Haartmanin sairaala Haartmaninkatu 4, 00290 Helsinki Open 24/7

This is the primary emergency department for adult urgent care in Helsinki. The sukupuolitautien poliklinikka (venereal disease clinic) is also at this address — during daytime hours, they may handle PEP requests directly. Outside clinic hours, the main Päivystys handles PEP initiation.

HUS Jorvi Hospital (Espoo area, if closer): Turuntie 150, 02740 Espoo Open 24/7

Walk in and say:

"Minulla oli mahdollinen HIV-altistus ja tarvitsen PEP-lääkitystä. Se tapahtui [X] tuntia sitten." ("I had a possible HIV exposure and need PEP medication. It happened [X] hours ago.")

What Happens at the Emergency Department

  1. Triage — PEP requests are handled as urgent. You may wait, but the 72-hour window is clinically documented.
  2. Assessment — A doctor reviews the nature of the exposure and your current HIV status (rapid test).
  3. Starter medication — If PEP is indicated, you receive the first few days of medication at the hospital.
  4. Follow-up referral — You'll be directed to the sukupuolitautien poliklinikka for the full 28-day prescription and ongoing monitoring.
  5. Monitoring — HIV test at day 28 and 3 months after the exposure.

PEP Outside Helsinki

City Hospital Phone
Tampere Tays Päivystys (Elämänaukio 2) 03 311 67700
Oulu OYS Päivystys (Kajaanintie 50) 08 315 2011
Turku Tyks Päivystys (Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8) 02 313 0000
Jyväskylä Kes-Sairaala (Keskussairaalantie 19) 014 269 1811

In all cases, call 116 117 first for guidance.

Cost

PEP is free for Finnish residents (Kela-covered as emergency treatment). Visiting EU citizens with an EHIC are covered for medically necessary care. Non-EU visitors will receive a bill; speak to hospital social services if cost is a barrier.

The 72-Hour Rule

Time since exposure Action
Under 72 hours Call 116 117 and go to Päivystys — PEP is possible
Over 72 hours PEP is not effective. Get tested and follow up at 4–6 weeks.
4–6 weeks later HIV test even if you did not take PEP

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