Bielsko Provincial Hospital launches reimbursed chronic migraine program

Starting October 1, the Bielsko Provincial Hospital in Poland will implement a new drug program funded by the National Health Fund (NFZ) to provide reimbursed treatment for patients with chronic migraine. The program offers access to modern preventive therapies, specifically type A botulinum toxin or anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies.

To qualify for the program, patients must experience headaches for at least 15 days per month, including a minimum of eight migraine days, for a period of three months. Additionally, patients must have undergone at least two unsuccessful attempts at oral treatment. Access requires a referral to a hospital neurology clinic.

This development addresses a significant health issue in Poland, where approximately 6 million people suffer from migraines, including 750,000 with the chronic form. Experts note that migraine is a serious neurological condition that causes more disability than multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease combined. Currently, only an estimated 2% to 14% of those requiring preventive treatment receive it, with many patients relying on ineffective over-the-counter painkillers.