In our estimation, uses of databases on primary health care and hospital services may be improved
in Finland. New recording of patient data could open new avenues. The aim of the study was to assess application of statistical databases for the purposes of health care planning. With municipality
analysis and descriptive futures research method, the study introduces the health services profi le. The
health services profi le describes the available resources and illustrates how they are divided between
primary health care and hospital care and used within the municipalities. Descriptive futures research
method refers to an approach aimed at presenting predictions based on past developments. With
an illustration of a graphic time series that covers the past 9 years, a probable 2-year use of health
care was estimated for the one municipality. Within both primary health care and hospital services,
identical groups of diseases generated the most expenses. An analysis with time series is likely to
assist in predicting health care utilization. Past controlled uses of databases may have been benefi cial
for short-term planning purposes. Informed planning will generate better information systems for
primary health care and hospital services and better uses of databases are expected as a result.