Healthcare and Health Insurance in Poland

Summary: The quality of medical care in Poland is generally considered to be good, with many doctors and medical professionals having received training in the United States or other Western countries. Emergency services in Poland are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances typically arriving within 15 minutes of a call. To call for an ambulance in Poland, dial 112 from any phone.

How are healthcare services Poland?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Poland, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Poland are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Polish citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Poland is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies. Expats in Poland can access the public healthcare system by registering with the National Health Fund (NFZ) and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to receive free or discounted medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Expats can also opt for private healthcare, which is usually more expensive but offers a higher level of service," commented one expat who moved to Poland.

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What are medical services in Poland like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Poland, they replied:

"In Poland, medical services are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Patients can access both public and private healthcare, with the public system providing free or low-cost care. The country also has a number of highly-regarded medical universities, which provide excellent training for medical professionals. Additionally, Poland is home to a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services," said one expat living in Poland.

"I have had three operations while living here. Two were very good but the third went wrong, due to an error, or rather lack of understanding off my medication needs, by the head surgeon. This mea.nt I spent fifteen days extra in hospital, recovering from massive internal bleeding. In future I will research the hospital I am going into," mentioned one expat in Rzeszów.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Poland?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Poland are generally considered to be affordable. The cost of healthcare services is relatively low compared to other European countries, and the government subsidizes a large portion of the cost. Health insurance is also relatively inexpensive, with most plans costing less than $100 per month. Additionally, the government provides free healthcare to those who are unable to afford it. Overall, healthcare and health insurance in Poland are considered to be quite affordable," remarked one expat living in Poland.

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What are emergency services like in Poland?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Poland wrote:

"Emergency services in Poland are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," said an expat in Poland.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Poland is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, with some of the best selection located in the major cities. Warsaw, the capital, is home to a large number of medical specialists, including specialists in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Krakow is another city with a wide selection of medical specialists, including specialists in orthopedics, ophthalmology, and dermatology. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Poznan, Wroclaw, and Gdansk. Additionally, the Silesian region of Poland is known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, particularly in the fields of gynecology and pediatrics," remarked one expat living in Poland.

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Are common prescription medications available in Poland?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Poland. Pharmacies in Poland are well-stocked with a wide variety of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Poland are the same as those available in other countries, although some may have different names or be produced by different manufacturers. In addition, some medications may be available in Poland that are not available in other countries," said one expat living in Poland.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Poland?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Poland are of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern medical equipment and highly trained medical professionals. Poland also has a number of specialized medical centers and hospitals that provide excellent care for a variety of medical conditions. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Poland is generally lower than in other European countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality medical care at an affordable price," commented one expat who moved to Poland.

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As a foreigner living in Poland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Poland, you will have access to public healthcare. The quality of care is generally good, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The system is divided into two parts: the National Health Fund (NFZ) and the private sector. The NFZ provides basic healthcare services, while the private sector offers more specialized services. The public healthcare system is generally well-regarded and is considered to be one of the best in Europe," said one expat.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Poland if they have access to public healthcare in Poland. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Poland. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the introduction of a nationwide lockdown, the closure of schools and universities, and the suspension of non-essential services. Healthcare workers have been working tirelessly to provide care to those affected by the virus, and the government has provided additional funding to support the healthcare system. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the healthcare system in Poland has been able to provide quality care to those in need," commented one expat living in Poland.

"I was in hospital during the current Covid outbreak. It was not a nice experience. Saying that I do not believe it would have been better anywhere else in the world," wrote one expat.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Poland?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Poland about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Poland before having a baby. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with your culture. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the maternity and paternity leave policies in Poland. Additionally, it is a good idea to look into the availability of childcare options in your area. Finally, make sure to take advantage of the support networks available to expats in Poland, such as expat forums and Facebook groups," wrote a person living in Poland.

"Don't worry - Poznan maternity prenatal, labour and post natal facilities and care is excellent. Your in good hands, as a european citizen with an E1 11 card my labour cost 300pln, midwife 700pln the monthly doctors visits cost 130pln per visit, various tests etc about 600pln. Excellent care very good experience," explained one expat living in Poznan.

Are healthcare services good in Poland?

"Healthcare services in Poland are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed public healthcare system, which is free for all citizens and provides access to a wide range of medical services. Private healthcare is also available, and many people opt for this option due to shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Poland also has a number of specialized medical centers and clinics that offer advanced treatments and procedures. In addition, the country has a well-developed network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," explained one expat.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Poland

How are healthcare services Poland?

What are medical services in Poland like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Poland?

What are emergency services like in Poland?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Poland?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Poland?

As a foreigner living in Poland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Poland?

Are healthcare services good in Poland?

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