Understanding the Healthcare System in Poland
Poland has a well-developed healthcare system that includes both public and private healthcare services. As a foreigner, understanding how medical care and health insurance work in Poland is essential to ensure you receive quality treatment when needed.
Public vs. Private Healthcare in Poland
Poland offers two main types of healthcare services:
1️⃣ Public Healthcare (NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia)
- Funded by social security contributions.
- Available to residents with a PESEL number and those insured through employment or voluntary contributions.
- Free or low-cost medical services, including doctor visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care.
- Long waiting times for specialists and elective procedures.
2️⃣ Private Healthcare
- Paid services with faster access to specialists and medical treatments.
- No long queues or waiting periods.
- Higher standard of care and multilingual medical professionals.
- Private medical packages are available through insurance providers or direct payments.
Who is Eligible for Public Healthcare in Poland?
You can access Poland’s public healthcare system if you:
✅ Work in Poland and pay social security contributions (ZUS).
✅ Are a student with valid insurance (e.g., through a university or private provider).
✅ Are self-employed and contribute to ZUS.
✅ Are an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
✅ Have voluntary health insurance through NFZ.
📌 Important: Non-EU citizens without public health insurance must either obtain private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket for medical care.
Cost of Healthcare in Poland
Public Healthcare Costs:
- General practitioner (GP) visits: Free for insured residents.
- Specialist appointments: Free but may have long waiting times.
- Hospital stays: Free for insured patients.
- Emergency services: Free but non-urgent cases may incur charges.
Private Healthcare Costs:
- GP visit: PLN 100–300 (€22–65).
- Specialist consultation: PLN 150–500 (€33–110).
- Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scan): PLN 400–1,500 (€90–330).
- Surgery (private hospitals): Costs vary based on procedure and provider.
Health Insurance for Foreigners in Poland
Foreigners in Poland should consider health insurance plans to cover medical expenses and ensure access to quality care.
Types of Health Insurance in Poland
✅ NFZ Insurance (Public) – Available to employed residents and voluntary contributors.
✅ Private Health Insurance – Covers GP visits, specialist consultations, and hospital stays without long waiting times.
✅ International Health Insurance – Suitable for expats and digital nomads, offering global medical coverage.
✅ Travel Health Insurance – Required for Schengen Visa applicants to cover emergency medical treatment.
Best Private Health Insurance Providers in Poland
Several insurance companies in Poland offer private health coverage for foreigners:
- PZU Zdrowie – One of the largest health insurers in Poland.
- Lux Med – Provides premium health services and fast access to specialists.
- Medicover – A leading private healthcare provider with multiple clinics.
- Signal Iduna – Offers international and local medical insurance plans.
- Allianz – Comprehensive expat health insurance with worldwide coverage.
Why You Need Health Insurance in Poland
🔹 Avoid expensive out-of-pocket medical costs.
🔹 Access faster and higher-quality private healthcare.
🔹 Meet visa and residence permit requirements.
🔹 Enjoy peace of mind with full medical coverage.
Get Covered Today!
Finding the right health insurance in Poland can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Lawdigital offers expert assistance in selecting the best insurance plans for expats and foreigners.
📩 Need help with health insurance? Contact Lawdigital today to get a tailored plan that suits your needs and budget!
