Poland healthcare system faces funding crisis and staffing protests

Poland's healthcare system is facing significant financial strain, affecting both hospital operations and medical staffing. The Zywiec County Council has issued an appeal to the government, calling for urgent legislative and organizational reforms to stabilize the funding of district hospitals.

Zywiec Hospital has reportedly struggled with insufficient funding since 2020, with unpaid services for 2024–2025 amounting to approximately 55 million PLN. The hospital has seen service surpluses—exceeding planned levels—ranging from 100% to over 300% in areas such as surgery, pediatrics, and diagnostics.

Simultaneously, the Polish Nurses and Midwives Union (OZZPiP) is protesting cost-cutting measures implemented by hospital directors following recent wage increases. The union reports that hospitals are attempting to offset costs by reducing working hours, cutting staff positions, and decreasing shifts. The union has formally communicated to the Ministry of Health and employers that nurses and midwives should not serve as a financial buffer for systemic healthcare funding issues.