Päivi Korhonen, Humane Defender of Primary Healthcare, Dies at 60

Professor Päivi Korhonen, a distinguished figure in general medicine, passed away on May 27, 2026, at the age of 60 following a severe illness. Born in Harjavalta, she dedicated her life to advancing primary healthcare and fostering a humane approach to patient treatment.

Korhonen's academic career at the University of Turku, where she served as a professor of general medicine from 2015, was built upon a foundation of extensive clinical experience. She worked in health centers until 2015 and even after falling ill, she expressed a desire to return to patient care. Her research, which yielded over 200 scientific publications, focused on cardiovascular diseases, their prevention, and protective health factors. She led three research groups and mentored numerous doctoral students, significantly shaping the research culture in general medicine and inspiring many to pursue research careers.

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She spoke for the accessibility of primary healthcare, continuity of care, and the patient–doctor relationship, opposing "patient rejection systems" and uncontrolled digitalization.

Beyond her research and teaching, Korhonen was a vocal advocate for accessible primary healthcare, continuous care, and the crucial patient-doctor relationship. She actively opposed what she termed "patient rejection systems" and the unchecked advancement of digitalization in healthcare. Her commitment to these principles was recognized in 2025 when she received the Pikkutikka award, an honor bestowed upon a "good doctor" who promotes knowledge, skills, and compassionate care, and demonstrates exceptional care for others.

Colleagues and friends remember Korhonen as a bright, humorous, and honest individual with broad interests. An avid reader and sports enthusiast, she enjoyed traveling with her husband, Jari, and skiing. She also maintained close ties with her nephews, Markus and Lauri, taking pride in their lives and achievements. Until her death, Korhonen remained a champion for the vulnerable and a societal conscience, embodying a spirit of human-to-human connection.

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It was given to a "good doctor" who promotes knowledge, skills, and human-centered competence and shows exceptional care for others in their work.