What is healthcare like for workers in Poland?
Poland has a well-established healthcare system that offers medical services to both citizens and legally employed foreign workers. If you're considering working in Poland or hiring talent from abroad, understanding the healthcare landscape is essential. In this article, we’ll explore how healthcare works for employees in Poland, what kind of coverage is available, and how both public and private options play a role.
1. Overview of the Polish Healthcare System
Poland operates a universal healthcare system, primarily funded through mandatory health insurance contributions. The public healthcare system is managed by the National Health Fund (NFZ – Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia).
Employees working legally in Poland are generally covered under this public system, gaining access to healthcare services at no direct cost at the point of use, assuming contributions are made properly.
2. Health Insurance for Workers in Poland
In Poland, health insurance is closely tied to employment. Here's how it works:
- Employers are legally required to register employees for health insurance.
- A portion of the employee’s salary (approximately 9%) is deducted monthly and contributed to the NFZ.
- Once registered, workers receive a PESEL number (a national identification number) and access to healthcare services.
Even foreign workers, including EU and non-EU nationals, are entitled to the same healthcare services as Polish citizens, provided they are employed and insured.
3. What Services Are Covered?
Under NFZ coverage, employees have access to:
- General practitioner (GP) visits
- Specialist consultations (with referrals)
- Emergency medical services
- Hospital treatment
- Rehabilitative care
- Maternity care
- Basic dental care
While public healthcare covers most basic needs, waiting times can be long, especially for specialist appointments and surgeries.
4. Private Healthcare Options
Due to these waiting times, many workers — especially expats and professionals — opt for private healthcare, either through personal insurance or as part of an employer-provided benefits package.
Private healthcare in Poland offers:
- Faster appointments
- English-speaking doctors
- Shorter wait times for diagnostics and surgeries
- Access to a wider range of specialists
Many employers in Poland now offer private medical packages to attract and retain talent, especially in sectors like IT, finance, and multinational corporations.
5. Healthcare Access for Expats and Foreign Workers
Foreign workers in Poland are generally well-covered under the public system if employed legally. Key points:
- EU/EEA citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary stays.
- Non-EU workers need to ensure proper health insurance through employment or private providers.
- Residence cards or work permits often require proof of health coverage.
For expats on temporary assignments or working as freelancers, private health insurance may be the most practical solution.
6. Employer Responsibilities
Employers in Poland must:
- Register employees with the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS)
- Ensure timely payment of health insurance contributions
- Provide documentation for employees to access NFZ services
Offering additional private healthcare is not mandatory, but it is increasingly seen as a competitive benefit in the job market.
Conclusion
Healthcare for workers in Poland is generally robust, combining a public system with growing private options. Legal employees — whether Polish or foreign — are entitled to public healthcare, but many prefer the speed and convenience of private medical services. As Poland continues to attract global talent, understanding its healthcare framework is key for both employees and employers alike.
