Polish Medical Association (NIL) issued a statement to Prime Minister Donald Tusk, refuting claims that oncological patients are being redirected and highlighting prolonged waiting times.
NIL Presents NFZ Data
NIL released official National Health Fund (NFZ) data showing very long waiting times for first possible admissions at many oncology centres in Poland. Some of these dates correspond to signals from doctors asking patients to start treatment at other facilities.
Many Hospitals’ Financial Situation Is Very Bad
NIL acknowledged the Ministry of Health’s guidance that oncology programmes should not be postponed, but noted that many hospitals are in very bad financial condition. Although the scale of postponements relative to scheduled surgeries is not large, NIL says it is not zero.
Prime Minister: Patients Are Not Being Redirected
At a press conference, Prime Minister Donald Tusk said claims of oncology patients being redirected are false, labeling them as a lie. He stated each reported case was verified and found inaccurate, and that if any case occurs, the Health Minister would intervene.
Doctors Discuss Hospital Situation
Dr. Łukasz Jankowski, president of NIL, said in early November that oncology patients are being referred, citing lack of funds. He accused politicians of passing responsibility and blamed the health system for deteriorating.
President Considers Convening Cabinet Board
President Karol Nawrocki is considering summoning the Cabinet Board to discuss the situation. The presidential palace is setting a possible meeting date as per constitutional provisions.