Post-Arrival: Healthcare
Accessing Healthcare in Poland
Understand how to navigate the Polish healthcare system, including insurance options, finding doctors, and emergency procedures for international students.
Poland Healthcare Access
Patient Status
Insured Student
Public Insurance (NFZ)
Eligible with registration
EHIC Coverage (EU Students)
Valid for emergency care
Private Insurance
Additional options available
Emergency Contact
112
European Emergency Number
Polish Healthcare System Overview
Poland has a dual healthcare system: a public system funded by the National Health Fund (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia - NFZ) and a growing private sector.
Public System (NFZ):
- Provides access to a wide range of services (GPs, specialists, hospitals) for those insured.
- Funded through mandatory health contributions.
- Waiting times for specialists or procedures can sometimes be long.
Private Sector:
- Offers faster access to specialists and often more modern facilities.
- Paid for out-of-pocket or through private health insurance.
- Major providers include LuxMed, Medicover, Enel-Med.
Health Insurance Requirements
Having valid health insurance is mandatory for your entire stay in Poland. Requirements differ based on your nationality.
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary medical treatment under the NFZ system under the same conditions as Polish citizens. EHIC does not cover private healthcare or planned treatment.
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: You MUST have health insurance. Options include:
- Signing a voluntary agreement with NFZ: Allows access to the public system. Requires monthly contributions (check current rates). Often requires university confirmation.
- Private Health Insurance: Purchase a policy from a Polish or international insurer that meets the minimum requirements for visa/residence permit applications (check coverage amount and scope).
Insurance for Residence Permit
Proof of adequate health insurance is a mandatory document when applying for a Temporary Residence Permit (Karta Pobytu).
Finding Doctors & Pharmacies
Knowing how to find medical help when needed is important.
Doctors (Lekarz):
- Primary Care (GP): Find a clinic (przychodnia) contracted with NFZ (if using public insurance) or a private clinic. Registering with a GP is recommended.
- Specialists: Often require a referral (skierowanie) from a GP in the NFZ system. Direct access possible in private clinics.
- Finding Doctors: Use online portals (ZnanyLekarz.pl), ask university international office, check private clinic websites (LuxMed, Medicover).
Pharmacies (Apteka):
- Widely available, look for the green cross sign.
- Dispense prescription (na receptę) and over-the-counter (bez recepty) medications.
- Some operate 24/7 (apteka całodobowa) - check local listings.
Emergency Services
In case of a serious accident or sudden life-threatening situation:
- Dial 112: This is the single European emergency number for ambulance, police, and fire services.
- Provide Information: Clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and who needs help.
- Hospital Emergency Rooms (SOR): For urgent conditions requiring immediate hospital care, go to the nearest Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy (SOR).
Mental Health Support
Mental health is as important as physical health, especially when adapting to a new country. Poland offers various resources for mental health support.
University Resources:
- Most universities offer free psychological counseling services for students.
- International student offices can direct you to English-speaking therapists.
- Peer support groups are available at many institutions.
External Services:
- Private clinics offer mental health services (usually for a fee).
- Online therapy platforms provide affordable alternatives.
- Crisis helplines: 116 123 (Free emotional support hotline).
Student Health Matters
Don't hesitate to seek help if you're feeling overwhelmed. Adapting to a new country can be challenging, and it's normal to need support.
Useful Medical Phrases in Polish
Learning a few key medical phrases in Polish can be extremely helpful when visiting doctors or pharmacies. Here are some essential phrases to remember:
| Polish | English |
|---|---|
| Boli mnie głowa | I have a headache |
| Boli mnie gardło | I have a sore throat |
| Mam gorączkę | I have a fever |
| Jestem chory/chora | I am sick (male/female) |
| Potrzebuję lekarza | I need a doctor |
| Mam alergię na... | I am allergic to... |
| To pilne | It's urgent |
| Gdzie jest najbliższa apteka? | Where is the nearest pharmacy? |
Healthcare Tips for Students
- Understand your insurance status (EHIC, NFZ, private) and carry proof with you.
- Register with a primary care doctor (lekarz pierwszego kontaktu) soon after arrival, especially if using NFZ.
- Learn the basic Polish terms for common ailments or use translation apps when visiting a doctor.
- Keep copies of your medical records and prescriptions.
- Know the location of the nearest hospital with an emergency room (SOR - Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy).
- Pharmacies (Apteka) are common; look for the green cross sign. Some operate 24/7 (check local listings).
- Don't wait until you are sick to figure out the healthcare system.
Common Healthcare Questions
Get Support
Need Personalized Healthcare Guidance?
Navigating healthcare in a new country can be complex. Contact Qogent for expert advice on insurance options, finding doctors, and accessing medical services in Poland.
Contact Us