The Polish government approved a project Tuesday to finance HCV and HIV treatment through the National Health Fund, expanding access to care.
Government Approves Funding Shift for HCV and HIV Care
The Polish government adopted a project on Tuesday that changes the funding source for diagnostic tests for patients with Hepatitis C (HCV) in correctional facilities. The changes proposed by the Ministry of Health also aim to improve access to treatment for people living with HIV.
The Council of Ministers addressed the project amending the Act on healthcare benefits financed from public funds and the Act on the prevention and control of infectious diseases in humans during its Tuesday session.
Expanded Access to Testing and Treatment
Individuals with HCV and HIV will be able to access testing funded by the National Health Fund (NFZ). The Prime Minister’s Office stated the project improves access to treatment for people living with HIV and changes the funding source for diagnostic tests for HCV patients in prisons.
The new solutions aim to provide better access to medical care for people with HIV who do not have health insurance.
Funding Shift for Prison Inmate HCV Diagnostics
Following the changes, diagnostic tests related to the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C in inmates will be funded by the National Health Fund. Currently, these costs are covered by the Minister of Health’s budget.
HIV Treatment Access Regardless of Insurance Status
According to the project, people with HIV, regardless of their insurance status, will have access to medical appointments for antiretroviral therapy (drug dispensing and diagnostic tests) within the framework of a health policy program, free of charge.
Antiretroviral Therapy Benefits Highlighted
The government emphasized that antiretroviral therapy not only treats but also acts as a preventative measure. “Effectively treated individuals who achieve an undetectable viral load are unable to transmit the virus. Treating people living with HIV will reduce costs associated with later complications, such as cancer and heart disease,” the statement read.
Implementation Timeline and International Commitments
The new regulations will come into effect 14 days after publication in the Journal of Laws. Poland, in line with World Health Organization guidelines and international agreements (including those within the Sustainable Development Goals), has committed to achieving specific indicators for reducing the number of people infected with HIV and HCV and increasing the number of people effectively treated.
Achieving this goal requires including key populations in therapy (HIV/HCV).