On Tuesday, Poland will see a ceremonial signing of a new law that broadens the list of people who qualify for free medicines. The change extends eligibility to both children under 18 and seniors aged 65 and older. The amendment updates the Public Health Care Act and the Act on the Reimbursement of Medicines, Foods for Special Nutrition and Medical Devices, widening access to essential medications and related products for these groups.
A detailed enumeration of medicines, foods intended for special nutritional purposes, and medical devices that will be provided for free will be issued by the Minister of Health. The list will be published in two separate communications: one for individuals under 18 and another for patients aged 65 and above. This ensures clear, age-specific guidance on which items are covered.
Previously, the Ministry of Health had identified free medicines for those over the age of 75, marking a notable step in expanding support for younger populations and seniors. The current reform shifts the standard to include younger families and older adults, reflecting a broader approach to public health and medication affordability.
Announcement of the Programowy Ul PiS
The plan to offer free medicines to seniors 65 and older and to children under 18 was first disclosed in mid May by Deputy Prime Minister and head of the Law and Justice party, Jarosław Kaczyński, during the Programowy Ul of Law and Justice convention. The public discourse at the event highlighted the government’s intention to extend medication access as part of a wider policy agenda focused on health care and social welfare.
Readers interested in this policy shift may recall related parliamentary actions and government statements that signaled a commitment to keep promises on health care reform. Observers noted that the proposed changes would interact with existing reimbursement mechanisms and could influence hospital budgeting and patient out-of-pocket costs. The policy aims to reduce financial barriers to essential medicines for families with children and for older adults who are often most affected by price fluctuations and therapeutic complexity.
Citations and context: analysis from coverage in national outlets and political commentary discussed the potential impact on public health services and hospital finances. [Citation: wPolityce]