Under the “For Life” legislation, pregnant women with concerning prenatal results and families raising children with disabilities are entitled to a family assistant to navigate legal, health, and administrative challenges.
Eligibility for Family Assistance
The “For Life” program provides dedicated support to women experiencing complicated pregnancies or those whose prenatal test results are concerning. It is also designed for families raising children with severe, irreversible disabilities or life-threatening illnesses diagnosed prenatally or at birth.
Legal Foundation and Objectives
The program is governed by the Act of November 4, 2016, on support for pregnant women and families “For Life” (Journal of Laws of 2024, item 1829). It ensures access to specialized healthcare services and social policy instruments.
Scope of Support
Family assistants provide comprehensive coordination of care, helping families navigate bureaucratic procedures, access specialist counseling, and secure necessary psychological or legal aid. They may also act on behalf of the family in institutional matters upon receipt of written authorization.
Application Process
To obtain assistance, a formal application must be submitted to the local social assistance center (GOPS, MOPS, or OPS). Applicants must provide a medical certificate confirming the child’s severe and irreversible disability or life-threatening illness, issued by a qualified specialist in fields such as obstetrics, perinatology, or pediatric neurology.
Handling Negative Decisions
If an application is denied, the family has the right to appeal the decision. Details regarding the procedure and the 14-day deadline for filing an appeal are specified within the original notice of refusal, with further options for legal recourse available if the initial appeal is unsuccessful.