Poland Ministry of Health confirms drug list for seniors

The Polish Ministry of Health has released the final reimbursement announcement for medications free of charge for seniors aged 65 and older, effective October 1, 2026. Contrary to previous concerns regarding the potential removal of 1,500 products, officials clarified that no mass deletions will occur.

Deputy Health Minister Katarzyna Kacperczyk stated that the ministry is utilizing new negotiation tools with manufacturers rather than simply removing drugs from the list. Negotiations with 11 entities are expected to yield approximately 400 million PLN in savings, which will be redirected toward funding additional therapies.

The new strategy aims to restore price competition. While specific brands may no longer be fully subsidized, cheaper equivalents containing the same active ingredients will remain available at zero cost. Affected medications include preparations such as Eliquis, Januvia, Janumet, and Ultibro Breezhaler, which are used for conditions including type 2 diabetes, COPD, and thromboembolic diseases.