Ministry of Health introduces new hospital staffing regulations, bringing back ‘gipsiarz’ position and creating new healthcare roles effective January 19, 2026.
New Regulations Overview
The Ministry of Health has prepared a draft regulation changing qualification requirements for employees at various positions in non-commercial healthcare institutions. The main objective of the amendment from January 19, 2026, is to implement authorization contained in the Medical Activity Act and harmonize regulations with the August 17, 2023 Act on certain medical professions.
New Medical Professions Introduced
The project adapts job positions to qualification requirements for a wide range of professions regulated by the new law. Changes include dental assistants and hygienists, electroradiologists, medical caregivers, optometrists, orthoptists, hearing aid technicians, and technicians in pharmaceuticals, massage therapy, orthopedics, and medical sterilization.
Dietitian Role Changes
Significant changes concern dietitians. The provisions of the Act on certain medical professions cover individuals planning diets and providing educational advice as part of guaranteed services. Consequently, the positions of dietitian, senior dietitian, and dietitian assistant have been adjusted to new education and qualification requirements, similar to other regulated professions.
Return of the “Gipsiarz”
In response to signals from healthcare institutions, the Ministry of Health decided to restore a position that existed in regulations in the 1990s. This refers to the “plaster technician” and “senior plaster technician.” These positions will complement the group including orderlies, ward attendants, and laboratory assistants.
Support Staff Positions
At the request of the National Chamber of Physiotherapists, the position of balneological assistant has also been introduced. This aims to relieve qualified physiotherapists of technical tasks. The balneological assistant will handle tasks such as washing and disinfecting bathtubs, preparing positions for hydrotherapy and peloidotherapy treatments, and assisting with procedures that do not require specialized physiotherapy qualifications.
Nursing Management Requirements
Important changes introduced at the request of the Main Council of Nurses and Midwives (NRPiP) concern managerial staff. Qualification requirements for positions such as head nurse, head midwife, and their deputies have been changed. According to the project, these positions will require a master’s degree in nursing or midwifery, postgraduate studies in healthcare management, and a specialist title in nursing (or a field applicable in healthcare) along with 7 years of work experience.
Other Administrative Changes
The structure of hospital administration will also include a new position: senior specialist for occupational safety and health. The regulation is to enter into force 14 days after its announcement. The project does not require notification in the EU and does not affect the activities of micro-enterprises.
