Polish health experts are evaluating new medications for rare diseases, chronic liver conditions, and a widely-used vaccine, with potential implications for treatment access and funding.
New Refundable Drugs 2026: What is Being Analyzed and Who Stands to Gain?
The Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariffication (AOTMiT) is currently assessing new drugs and vaccines, considering not only efficacy but also cost and impact on the healthcare system.
Recommendations from the Transparency Council will be forwarded to the Ministry of Health, often determining whether a drug will be included on the reimbursement list.
Lyvdelzi for Liver Disease: A New Drug and Hope for PBC Patients
The evaluation of Lyvdelzi, used to treat patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), is a key focus. PBC is a chronic disease that can lead to severe liver damage.
The introduction of this new drug into the treatment program could change the treatment approach, particularly for those who do not respond to standard methods. The decision also hinges on the public system’s ability to finance the therapy.
Ayvakyt for Mastocytosis: A Costly Drug, Difficult Decision, and Fight for Access
The assessment of Ayvakyt, used in the treatment of systemic mastocytosis, is also underway. This is a rare blood cancer often diagnosed late, with an unpredictable course.
A positive opinion on this drug, while concerning a relatively small group of patients and involving high costs, could set a new standard of treatment in Poland and improve prognoses.
Influvac Flu Vaccine: Will There Be Changes in Reimbursement and Availability?
The analysis of the Influvac vaccine, used for flu prevention, has the broadest reach and could significantly impact patient and doctor decisions.
Changes in the approach to the vaccine could affect how many people choose to get vaccinated, and consequently, how the next flu season unfolds.
Health Programs for Children and Rehabilitation: Who Will Get Help, and Who Will Be Left Out?
Experts are also analyzing health programs prepared by local governments, which often determine whether patients receive assistance locally or must seek it elsewhere.
These programs, while local in nature, highlight the disparities in access to care based on place of residence.
When Will Patients Feel the Changes?
From a patient’s perspective, the key question is when these decisions will translate into real changes. The process requires administrative decisions and inclusion of therapies on reimbursement lists.
The effect is quicker for vaccines, with changes potentially visible in the next epidemic season.
The Cost of New Drugs and Who Pays? Behind the Scenes of Reimbursement Decisions
Underlying all decisions is the issue of funding. Modern drugs, especially for rare diseases, are among the most expensive therapies in the healthcare system.
This process is often invisible to the patient, but its effect is very concrete – in the availability of treatment or its lack.