High-quality recording and transparency to patient data support the care relationship

Notice Written on 15.5.2026
Patients’ access to their own electronic medical records supports their participation and increases their satisfaction with treatment. However, a recent study found that incorrect information, disrespectful language and information that is found unnecessary in the entries may cause offense.

The study led by Aalto University examined patients’ experiences of entries concerning them made by health care professionals, which can be viewed in MyKanta. The study is one of the first to compare different patient groups’ experiences of recorded electronic patient data. The study was based on a survey conducted by Aalto University and Kela in 2022, to which 4700 MyKanta users responded.

The majority, nearly 87%, were not offended by entries concerning them. Conversely, 13% of the respondents reported that they had been offended by some information in their electronic medical records. Up to a quarter, or more than 25 per cent, of those who received mental health care reported having been offended. 

According to the respondents, the entries that felt offensive included errors, irrelevant information and disrespectful language. The accuracy and respectful tone of the entries were key factors that people assessed in their medical records.

The experience of being heard and avoiding surprises in entries could prevent the feeling of offense, states Aalto University’s press release(opens new window). 

Transparency to patient data is important

Finland and the Nordic countries are pioneers in the electronic recording of patient data. In Finland, My Kanta provides citizens a view to all patient data stored in Kanta Services in health care in the format in which they have been recorded by the health and social service professional. 

“MyKanta brings valuable transparency to the recording of data, as people can now easily view what the professional has recorded about their situation and what has been agreed on regarding treatment,” explains Business Specialist Mari Holmroos from Kanta Services.  
Occasionally, users find errors or peculiar entries in their patient data. MyKanta can help bring out such entries, and people can request corrections.

“If you notice an error in your MyKanta information, you should contact the site of the visit, for example, the health centre or occupational health care,” Holmroos recommends.
Incorrect information is always corrected in the health and social service unit where the information was recorded. 

More information