Broadcaster MTV3 reported last week that the Finnish government will fund all air ambulance operations from 1st January 2012.  Currently hhalf of air ambulance flights are funded through the Slot Machine Association, a government-controlled monopoly, with charities funding the other half.

Maria Guzenina-Richardson, the health and social services minister, told MTV3 that money for air ambulance operations would be found in next year’s budget.

The move will also expand the operational coverage by adding a sixth base, although the location of that has not been given yet.

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com