NFZ to Simplify Foreign Medical Care Reimbursements
The Polish government has proposed new legislation to streamline the reimbursement process for medical treatments received abroad, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and improve patient access to...
The Polish government has proposed new legislation to streamline the reimbursement process for medical treatments received abroad, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and improve patient access to cross-border healthcare.
Table Of Content
Easing Foreign Treatment Procedures
Patients seeking medical care within the European Union will soon face fewer formalities when obtaining NFZ approval. The proposed government project (UD428) focuses on simplifying administrative procedures and strengthening protections for patients requiring urgent treatment outside of Poland.
Flexible Documentation Requirements
Currently, the medical portion of an application for planned foreign treatment must be completed by a doctor in Poland. The new proposal will allow patients to attach opinions from physicians practicing in other EU or EFTA countries, significantly easing the documentation process.
Reimbursement Without Prior Approval
Under existing rules, failing to obtain prior NFZ consent for planned treatment often results in a denial of reimbursement. The new policy includes a critical exception: if a patient’s health condition necessitated immediate action, the NFZ will not be permitted to deny repayment solely due to the absence of a prior application.
Streamlining Electronic Documentation
The project updates the requirements for claiming refunds on medical services, medications, and devices purchased within the EU, EFTA, and the UK. Patients will no longer need to submit paper copies for documents issued electronically, including e-prescriptions, e-referrals, and electronic orders for medical devices.
Expanded Payment Options
The government aims to modernize how refunds are disbursed. Reimbursements will be permitted to be transferred to any payment account, rather than being restricted to traditional bank accounts, which will benefit individuals using financial services such as SKOK.
Legislative Timeline and Compliance
The Ministry of Health states that these changes are necessary to align Polish law with EU regulations and European Court of Justice rulings. The proposal is currently in the government drafting stage, with the Council of Ministers scheduled to review it in the third quarter of 2026.