Polish sanatorium system loses over 100 million zł due to last‑minute patient cancellations

In 2024‑2025 Polish sanatoria recorded more than 108 million zł in unrealised treatment value as a result of "niedojazdy" – patients cancelling or not appearing for scheduled stays. The National Health Fund (NFZ) reports that cancellations rose from over 127,000 in 2024 to more than 134,000 the following year, leaving rooms empty despite long waiting lists and causing multi‑million‑złoty annual losses, including a reported 3.4 million zł loss at Busko‑Zdrój.

The industry warns that the current referral and scheduling system cannot react quickly enough to last‑minute drop‑outs, leaving vacant places that cannot be re‑filled. Providers are urging legislative changes, such as faster re‑allocation of free slots and penalties for patients who withdraw without a valid reason.

Separately, the articles outline the financing structures for sanatorium stays. NFZ‑funded trips last 21 days for adults (27 days for children) but require co‑payments for accommodation and meals, with charges ranging from about 11.90 zł to 40.90 zł per night depending on room type. In contrast, ZUS‑funded rehabilitations span 24 days, are fully covered – including transport, lodging, meals and a medical leave certificate – and are available to insured persons who meet work‑capacity criteria. Eligibility excludes children, most retirees and permanent disability pensioners.