Polish medical unions protest new healthcare laws and salary limits

The Polish National Medical Union (OZZL) has called for an urgent meeting with the Ministry of Health following the Sejm's passage of a healthcare reform package. The union is protesting new regulations that introduce salary caps, including a maximum hourly rate of 240 PLN gross, and a controversial provision known as ‘lex Kacprzyk’.

This specific amendment allows the President of the National Health Fund (NFZ) to unilaterally decide to exclude doctors from providing services funded by public funds for periods ranging from one month to eight years. In cases of repeated violations, such as falsifying medical procedures or work hours, the ban can be lifelong. The OZZL argues that this administrative power is unprecedented and lacks sufficient oversight or proportionality.

While proponents of the law suggest these measures are necessary to eliminate fraud within the public system, medical professionals express concern regarding the lack of a clear appeals process and the potential impact on professional stability and employment rights.