Public Funds: Wellbeing County Buys Million-Euro AI Solution from Company Where Ex-Director Moved

The Länsi-Uusimaa wellbeing services county has acquired an artificial intelligence solution for approximately 2.1 million euros from Tandem Health AB. This AI system is intended for use in recording customer and patient data.

A potential conflict of interest has arisen as the country manager for Tandem Health, Johan Sanmark, previously served as a director within the wellbeing county. During his tenure, Sanmark was reportedly involved in the preparation of this procurement process.

The wellbeing county stated that two companies competed for the AI solution contract: Tandem Health AB and Gosta Labs Oy. Despite Sanmark's prior role, the county maintains that the procurement was conducted through a competitive bidding process.

Nelli Myllylä, the development director for the wellbeing county, acknowledged the potential public relations challenges associated with the situation. However, she defended the decision, emphasizing that the procurement followed established procedures and that a competitive tender was held.