Poland’s Ministry of Health released a list of 100 therapies excluded from funding under the Temporary Access to Medicinal Technologies (RDTL) program, effective April 2026.
RDTL and the Two-Tiered Drug List
The National Health Fund (NFZ) has published two lists of medications: one detailing drugs it will cover, and another listing 100 therapies excluded from funding through the RDTL program. This creates a divide, offering treatment opportunities for some patients while abruptly ending access for others to therapies costing hundreds of thousands of zlotys.
The new lists take effect in April, encompassing both medications without funding and those covered by the NFZ.
What is RDTL?
The Temporary Access to Medicinal Technologies (RDTL) is a special funding pathway for therapies when standard treatment fails or no reimbursement is yet available. According to the Ministry of Health, patients can access medications not normally funded by the NFZ, provided they meet strict criteria.
RDTL Usage in Early 2026
In the first two months of 2026, the majority of RDTL therapies were related to oncology, highlighting the significant need and focus on life-threatening conditions. While offering a potential lifeline for some, others face the reality that access to treatment depends on decisions made outside of a doctor’s office.
The “Blacklist” of Unfunded Medications – 2026
A new communication from the Minister of Health on April 14, 2026, introduces a list of medications ineligible for RDTL funding – the so-called “blacklist.” This means the NFZ will deny funding even if a doctor deems the therapy necessary.
Patients already undergoing treatment can continue if they demonstrate its effectiveness.
Examples of Medications on the NFZ “Blacklist” (2026)
Examples of medications not funded include:
Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel) for multiple myeloma
The complete list contains 100 items.
The “White List” – Therapies Funded Under RDTL
Alongside the “blacklist,” a less-known “white list” exists, detailing therapies without standard reimbursement but funded through RDTL. These are often modern, expensive treatments, primarily in oncology and immunology, comprising nearly 200 items.
Examples of Medications on the RDTL “White List” (Top 20)
Examples of medications funded include:
Verzenios (abemaciclib) for breast cancer
RDTL Selection Criteria: Price, Efficacy, AOTMiT
The Ministry of Health’s decisions are based on several factors, including price, efficacy, and AOTMiT (Assessment of Therapeutic Value).
RDTL Eligibility, Application, and Limitations – 2026
Eligibility requires exhausted standard treatments, a positive consultant opinion, and a joint decision by the doctor and NFZ. Access is primarily limited to highly specialized hospitals – 99 had received approval as of the end of February, restricting access, particularly outside major centers.
Frequently Asked Questions About RDTL Funding
Patients cannot directly apply for RDTL funding; applications must be submitted by the attending physician. Treatment is free if the NFZ approves funding. The list of medications is updated periodically. Continued treatment is possible even if a medication is added to the “blacklist,” provided prior therapy was effective.
