Nurten TERKES, Nurdan Oral KARA, Iwona DEBINSKA
Mediterranean Nursing and Midwifery - 2026;6(4):297-304
Background: This study aims to compare the home care service models of Poland, Finland, and Türkiye in order to evaluate their structure, effectiveness, and contribution to elderly care. The comparison is grounded in the shared challenge of aging populations and the different approaches taken by each country to home-based care. These countries were compared because they represent contrasting European models of organizing and financing home care, allowing policy-relevant contrasts. Methods: A comparative descriptive design was employed. The study draws on secondary data sources including official health and social care reports, peer-reviewed literature, and national statistics. The models were evaluated across key dimensions such as service organization, funding mechanisms, accessibility, and integration into national health systems. Results: Finland has an advanced, publicly funded home care system with strong integration into its welfare state model. Poland is in the process of reforming and expanding its home care services, facing challenges in coordination and access. Türkiye is undergoing a transitional period in home care, where modern service models are developing alongside a still-persistent traditional family caregiving structure. Conclusion: The comparative findings highlight both shared and divergent features of the 3 home care systems. Lessons from Finland's established model, Poland's evolving system, and Türkiye's hybrid approach can inform policy development, especially for countries facing demographic aging. Additionally, this study presents a policy-transferable comparative matrix that offers actionable recommendations for countries at different stages of home care development, covering organization, financing, access, quality/workforce, and technology.
