How to See a Doctor in Poland: A Complete Guide for Immigrants
Healthcare in Poland can feel confusing for newcomers. The system works differently than in many other countries, and the rules are not always obvious. This guide explains everything step by step — clearly, simply, and without stress.
1. How the Polish Healthcare System Works
Poland has two main types of medical care:
1) Public healthcare (NFZ) — free if you are insured
NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) covers people who:
work legally and pay health insurance contributions,
are registered as unemployed,
have refugee or temporary protection status,
are children or students (in some cases).
If you are insured, visits to public doctors are free.
2) Private clinics — faster, but paid
Popular private networks:
LuxMed
Medicover
Enel‑Med
Polmed
Prices usually start from 120–250 PLN per visit.
👨⚕️ 2. Family Doctor (POZ) — Your First Contact in NFZ
In Poland, the family doctor (POZ — Primary Healthcare) is the main point of entry into the system. This doctor:
keeps your medical records,
gives referrals to specialists,
prescribes medications,
orders tests.
How to choose a family doctor
Find a POZ clinic near your home.
Fill out a “declaration of choice” (in person or online).
Provide your PESEL and ID.
You can use the services immediately.
You can change your family doctor twice a year for free.
📞 3. How to Make an Appointment (NFZ)
There are three ways:
1) By phone
The most common method. You will be asked for:
name and surname,
PESEL,
phone number,
short reason for the visit.
2) In person at the clinic
Still the most reliable option in many places.
3) Online (if the clinic offers e‑registration)
Not all clinics have this, but the number is growing.
💊 4. E‑Prescriptions and the Internet Patient Account (IKP)
Poland uses electronic prescriptions only.
How it works
The doctor issues an e‑prescription.
You receive an SMS with a 4‑digit code.
At the pharmacy, you give the code + your PESEL.
You receive your medication.
IKP (Internetowe Konto Pacjenta)
Through IKP you can:
check your prescriptions,
download referrals,
view your medical history,
manage your child’s healthcare.
You log in using online banking or a trusted profile.
🏥 5. Seeing a Specialist — How It Works
In the public system (NFZ), most specialists require a referral from your family doctor.
Specialists that require a referral
cardiologist
neurologist
endocrinologist
orthopedist
dermatologist (in most cases)
Specialists you can visit without a referral
gynecologist
ophthalmologist
psychiatrist
dentist (partially covered)
💸 6. Private Clinics — Faster Access
If you don’t want to wait in long queues, private clinics are a good option.
Advantages
fast appointments,
longer consultations,
modern facilities,
choice of doctor.
Disadvantages
120–350 PLN per visit,
tests and procedures cost extra.
🚑 7. Emergency Services — When to Call 112
Emergency number: 112
Call an ambulance only when life is in danger:
chest pain,
loss of consciousness,
difficulty breathing,
serious injury,
heavy bleeding.
Do NOT call an ambulance for
fever,
cold or flu,
sore throat,
minor injuries.
For these cases, go to POZ or a private clinic.
📄 8. Documents You Need for a Doctor’s Visit
passport or ID,
PESEL number,
proof of insurance (if using NFZ),
phone number,
list of medications you take.
🗣️ 9. Useful Polish Phrases for the Doctor
“Chciałbym umówić wizytę u lekarza.” — I would like to make a doctor’s appointment.
“Boli mnie brzuch / głowa / gardło.” — My stomach / head / throat hurts.
“Potrzebuję recepty.” — I need a prescription.
“Czy są wolne terminy?” — Are there available appointments?
“Chciałbym zapisać dziecko.” — I want to register my child.
⭐ 10. Summary
The Polish healthcare system may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the basics, it becomes much easier. Remember:
choose a family doctor (POZ),
use e‑prescriptions and IKP,
private clinics are faster but paid,
call 112 only in emergencies.
This guide helps immigrants feel confident and safe when seeking medical care in Poland.
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