Poland implements healthcare reforms and new NFZ monitoring rules

Poland is implementing several significant changes to its healthcare and administrative systems. The National Health Fund (NFZ) is introducing new quality indicators for primary care clinics, which may link funding to patient participation in preventive screenings and the ratio of teleconsultations. Additionally, the NFZ will begin real-time central monitoring of queues for 15 types of hospital procedures via the AP-KOLCE application to improve transparency and help patients find shorter wait times.

In pharmaceutical developments, the Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System has issued a positive recommendation for the reimbursement of Opzelura (ruksolitynib) for patients with acquired vitiligo through targeted import. However, the Main Pharmaceutical Inspectorate has warned of shortages for specific doses of olanzapine and clonazepam, with some supplies not expected until late 2026 or early 2027. Furthermore, new e-prescription regulations effective September 2026 will require doctors to include specific dosage instructions to ensure patient safety.

On the administrative front, Prime Minister Donald Tusk has designated December 28, 2026, as an additional day off for civil service members. Looking ahead to 2027, the Ministry of Health plans to include the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test in the list of NFZ-funded services to aid in cardiovascular risk assessment.