Poland diagnostic waiting times increase following new NFZ funding rules

New diagnostic funding rules implemented by the National Health Fund (NFZ) in Poland have led to a significant increase in waiting times for essential medical examinations. According to data from the Alivia Onkofundacja, patients waiting for a non-anesthetized colonoscopy in regular mode now face an average wait of 336 days, an increase of 99 days compared to previous periods. Urgent cases face an average wait of 262 days, up by 94 days.

The delays follow changes introduced on April 1, 2026, regarding how the NFZ compensates medical facilities. While examinations are technically unlimited, the NFZ pays only 50 percent of the rate for CT scans and MRI, and 60 percent for gastroscopy and colonoscopy when services exceed the contract value. This reduction in profitability has reportedly prompted some facilities to limit patient intake or suspend registrations.

Beyond colonoscopies, waiting times for gastroscopy have risen to 200 days in regular mode, while MRI and CT scan wait times have also increased. Medical experts emphasize that proper preparation for procedures like colonoscopies—including specific diets and bowel cleansing—is vital for diagnostic accuracy to detect polyps or inflammatory changes.