During a stay in Poland, free medical services are offered to citizens of the EU and four EFTA (European Free Trade Association) states: Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Tourists from these states should get the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travelling.

Basic medical care

In the case of an emergency, injury, sudden disease or health deterioration, patients should either call an ambulance or go directly to a hospital, to the A&E department. In such cases, medical transport is free of charge. In hospital, you must present your valid European Health Insurance Card or a replacement certificate. 

Emergencies

In case of an emergency, injury, childbirth, sudden disease or health deterioration, patients should either call an ambulance or go directly to a hospital, to the A&E department. In such cases, medical transport is free of charge. In the hospital, you must present your European Health Insurance Card or a replacement certificate.

When applying for a Polish visa, citizens of non-EU countries should take out health insurance that will be valid in all Member States (or in the countries to which the visa applies) for the duration of the planned stay or transit. The minimum insurance amount is EUR 30,000. The insurance policy may be issued by any foreign or domestic insurance company, and the original document and its photocopy should be produced when applying for the visa.

Emergency service phone numbers.

• mobile phones: 112
• stationary phones: 999

Remember that the European Health Insurance Card card is valid for 2 months. This period is prolonged to 5 years for, e.g. students, the retired and pensioners.

Private healthcare

Apart from healthcare paid for by the National Health Fund, Poland has well-developed private health services. A visit to a GP will cost you between 80 and 150 zloty, depending on the kind of advice you seek, and the region you are in.