The Polish government has unveiled a draft law, dubbed “Lex Szarlatan,” aimed at eliminating fraudulent medical practices and protecting patients from harmful treatments.
Government Moves to End Exploitation of the Ill
The proposed “Lex Szarlatan” legislation seeks to eradicate the business of pseudomedicine and remove false doctors and dangerous, “miraculous” therapies from the Polish market. The new regulations include financial penalties and grant the Patient Rights Ombudsman powerful tools to combat medical disinformation.
Government Action Against Dangerous Therapies
The government is taking action against unsafe therapies, potentially ending impunity for pseudomedicine practitioners. The draft amendment to the Act on Patients’ Rights and the Patient Rights Ombudsman was adopted by the Standing Committee of the Council of Ministers.
Extensive Consultation Process
The bill was prepared in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, following consultations with over 120 organizations and receiving several thousand comments. The final version reflects extensive work and numerous corrections, aiming to better protect citizens from pseudomedical practices deemed a threat to health and life.
Minister of Health on Patient Protection
“The state has a duty to protect patients wherever their health or life is threatened,” stated Minister of Health Jolanta Sobierańska-Grenda. “Deliberately misleading patients, spreading disinformation, or exploiting difficult life situations for ruthless profit should never be allowed.”
“Lex Szarlatan” Aims to Eliminate Harmful Practices
The new legislation intends to address two key problems and prevent the attribution of medicinal effects to preparations and the advertising of services and methods as health services when they are ineffective or even harmful.
Key Provisions of the Planned Changes
The planned changes primarily focus on eliminating doctors without diplomas and “miraculous” therapies in Poland. The amendment will allow the elimination of practices in Poland.
Significant Amendments Made During Development
During the legislative process, important changes were introduced, including the government withdrawing from controversial provisions.
Future of “Lex Szarlatan”
The draft bill will now go to debate. If adopted, it could significantly change the way Poland combats pseudomedicine and hinder the activities of those profiting from “miraculous” treatments.
