New reimbursement rules within Poland’s National Health Fund (NFZ) are projected to increase wait times for funded medical tests, potentially by up to two years.
Enel-Med Forecasts Extended Wait Times
Following the implementation of new rules for settling so-called “over-performance,” Enel-Med forecasts an extension of waiting times for tests funded by the National Health Fund (NFZ). The delays are estimated to be several months, and in some cases, nearly two years, depending on the type of service and location.
Specific Test Delays Reported
Enel-Med data indicates that waiting times for gastroscopy on the NFZ have increased by 7-9 months, while colonoscopy waits have lengthened by a year, and in some locations, almost two years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), previously available within 2-4 weeks, now requires a wait of 1.5 to three months in certain areas.
Enel-Med Cites Funding Restrictions
Enel-Med states that limitations in funding are impacting the availability of diagnostics. According to Jacek Rozwadowski, President of Enel-Med, any decision to reduce the budget in specialized outpatient diagnostics almost immediately affects access to services.
NFZ Rules Affect Over-Performance Reimbursement
The new NFZ rules concern the reimbursement of tests performed beyond the contract value. In practice, this means partial funding for over-performance in endoscopy and imaging diagnostics, which the company assesses directly impacts service availability.
Preventative Care Funding Concerns
Enel-Med argues that restricting funding for preventative care and early diagnostics will lead to longer queues for tests, later diagnoses, and increased uncertainty for patients.
