So you're studying in Poland, you've got your accommodation sorted, your bank account is set up, and you're starting to feel like you've got this whole "living abroad" thing figured out. Then you wake up one morning with a sore throat, or you twist your ankle on the way to class, or you just need a routine checkup, and suddenly you're thinking: "Wait, how does healthcare work here? Where do I go? What do I need? Am I covered?"

Here's the thing: navigating healthcare in a foreign country can feel overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with a different language, different system, and different rules. But Polish healthcare is actually pretty good, and once you understand how it works, it's not that complicated. The key is knowing your options, understanding your insurance, and knowing where to go when you need help.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from understanding the Polish healthcare system to getting health insurance to finding a doctor to handling emergencies. We'll talk about public vs. private healthcare, what's covered and what's not, how to make appointments, and how to avoid the common mistakes that make getting healthcare more complicated than it needs to be. Because your health matters, and you shouldn't have to figure this out when you're already feeling unwell.

The Reality Check: Understanding Polish Healthcare

Before we dive into the specifics, let's get real about how healthcare works in Poland. Because it's different from what you might be used to, and understanding the basics will save you a lot of confusion later.

The Polish healthcare system:

  • Public healthcare (NFZ): National Health Fund (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) – free or low-cost, but can have long waits
  • Private healthcare: Pay-per-visit or subscription-based – faster, more expensive, often English-speaking doctors
  • Emergency care: Available to everyone, regardless of insurance
  • Pharmacies: Well-stocked, many medications available without prescription

Key differences from other countries:

  • No GP system: You can usually go directly to specialists (with referral sometimes)
  • Mixed public/private: Many doctors work in both systems
  • Language barrier: Fewer English-speaking doctors in public system
  • Prescription medications: Many available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere

Reality check: Polish healthcare is good quality, but the public system can be slow for non-emergencies. Many international students use a combination of public (for emergencies and basic care) and private (for convenience and English-speaking doctors). The key is having the right insurance and knowing your options.

Health Insurance: What You Need and Why

You can't really use Polish healthcare without insurance. Well, you can, but it'll cost you. A lot. So let's talk about your insurance options.

EU/EEA/Switzerland Citizens: EHIC Card

What is EHIC?

EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) is your ticket to free public healthcare in Poland. If you're from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you should get this before you arrive.

What EHIC covers:

  • Necessary medical care in public healthcare facilities
  • Emergency treatment – hospitals, emergency rooms
  • Basic healthcare – doctor visits, specialist consultations (with referral)
  • Prescription medications – at reduced prices or free (depending on the medication)

What EHIC doesn't cover:

  • Private healthcare – You pay full price at private clinics
  • Non-emergency care – Some non-urgent treatments might not be fully covered
  • Dental care – Only emergency dental care is covered
  • Repatriation – Getting you home if seriously ill
  • Pre-existing conditions – Coverage might be limited

How to get EHIC:

  • Apply in your home country before you leave
  • Usually free or low cost
  • Valid for the duration of your stay (check expiration date)
  • Keep it with you at all times

Pro tip: Get EHIC before you arrive. It's free, and you'll need it. Also, make copies – keep one at home, one in your wallet, and one on your phone.

Non-EU Citizens: Private Health Insurance

You must have health insurance – It's required for your visa/residence permit, and you'll need it for healthcare.

Minimum requirements:

  • Coverage: Usually minimum €30,000 for medical expenses
  • Valid in Poland: Must be recognized in Poland
  • Duration: Must cover your entire stay
  • Documentation: Must be in Polish or English

Insurance options:

1. University health insurance:

  • Many universities offer insurance packages for international students
  • Usually €30-60/month (300-600 PLN)
  • Covers basic needs
  • Convenient – university handles it
  • Pro tip: Check if your university offers this – it's often the easiest option

2. Private health insurance (Polish providers):

  • Companies like PZU, Allianz, Generali offer student insurance
  • Usually €30-80/month depending on coverage
  • Must meet legal requirements for residence permit
  • Can include better coverage, English-speaking clinics
  • Pro tip: Compare options – prices and coverage vary widely

3. International health insurance:

  • Companies like Cigna, Allianz Care, AXA offer international student insurance
  • Usually €40-100/month
  • Often includes repatriation, better coverage
  • Good for students who travel a lot
  • Pro tip: More expensive but often better coverage, especially for emergencies

4. Insurance from home country:

  • If your home country insurance covers Poland
  • Must provide documentation in Polish/English
  • Check if residence permit office accepts it
  • Reality check: This is often the most complicated option – make sure it's actually valid in Poland

What to look for in insurance:

  • Coverage amount – Minimum €30,000 for residence permit
  • What's covered – Doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, emergencies
  • Deductibles – How much you pay before insurance kicks in
  • Network – Which clinics/hospitals are covered
  • English support – Can you call and get help in English?
  • Repatriation – Getting you home if needed

Pro tip: Read the fine print. Know what's covered and what's not. Also, keep your insurance card and policy documents with you – you'll need them.

Registering for Polish Public Insurance (NFZ)

Can you register for NFZ as an international student?

Short answer: It's complicated and usually not necessary.

Long answer:

  • EU students with EHIC: You're already covered, no need to register
  • Non-EU students: Usually not eligible for NFZ (you need private insurance)
  • Working students: If you work and pay taxes, you might be eligible
  • Long-term residents: After certain period, you might be eligible

Reality check: Most international students use EHIC (EU) or private insurance (non-EU). Trying to register for NFZ is usually more trouble than it's worth, and you might not even be eligible.

Public vs. Private Healthcare: Which Should You Use?

This is the big question. Let's break down both options so you can decide what works for you.

Public Healthcare (NFZ)

How it works:

  • Free or low-cost with EHIC or NFZ insurance
  • Public hospitals and clinics (szpitale, przychodnie)
  • General practitioners (GP) – Primary care doctors
  • Specialists – Usually need referral from GP
  • Emergency care – Available to everyone

Pros:

  • Free or very cheap – With insurance, most care is free
  • Good quality – Polish healthcare is generally good
  • Comprehensive – Covers most medical needs
  • Emergency care – Free for everyone, even without insurance

Cons:

  • Long waiting times – Can take weeks or months for non-emergencies
  • Language barrier – Few doctors speak English
  • Limited choice – You're assigned to a clinic based on address
  • Bureaucracy – More paperwork, more complicated
  • Limited hours – Usually business hours only

When to use public healthcare:

  • Emergencies (always free)
  • Routine checkups (if you can wait)
  • Serious conditions (good quality, free)
  • When you're on a tight budget

Reality check: Public healthcare is great for emergencies and serious issues, but the waiting times for non-emergencies can be frustrating. Many students use public for emergencies and private for convenience.

Private Healthcare

How it works:

  • Pay per visit or monthly subscription
  • Private clinics and hospitals (kliniki prywatne)
  • Direct access to specialists – Usually no referral needed
  • English-speaking doctors – More common in private system
  • Modern facilities – Often newer, better equipped

Pros:

  • Fast appointments – Usually same day or within days
  • English-speaking staff – Much easier for international students
  • No waiting – Get seen quickly
  • Better facilities – Modern equipment, nicer facilities
  • Convenience – Flexible hours, online booking

Cons:

  • Expensive – 100-300 PLN (€22-65) per visit
  • Not always covered – Insurance might not cover private care
  • Can add up – Multiple visits get expensive fast
  • Less comprehensive – Might not cover everything

When to use private healthcare:

  • When you need to see a doctor quickly
  • When you need English-speaking doctor
  • For routine checkups and convenience
  • When you have good insurance that covers it

Reality check: Private healthcare is expensive but convenient. Many international students use it for routine care and public for emergencies. Some insurance plans cover private care – check yours.

Comparison Table: Public vs. Private

Factor Public (NFZ) Private
Cost Free with insurance 100-300 PLN/visit
Waiting time Weeks to months Same day to few days
English support Rare Common
Quality Good Good to excellent
Emergency care Free for everyone Pay per visit
Specialists Need referral Direct access
Convenience Low (bureaucracy) High (flexible)
Best for Emergencies, serious issues Routine care, convenience

Pro tip: Many students use a hybrid approach – public for emergencies and serious issues, private for routine care and convenience. It's about finding the balance that works for you and your budget.

Finding a Doctor: Where to Go and How

Okay, you need to see a doctor. Now what? Here's how to actually find and see a doctor in Poland.

For Emergencies: Go to the Hospital

Emergency number: 112

  • Works for medical, police, and fire emergencies
  • Free, available 24/7
  • Operators usually speak English (or can get translator)

Emergency rooms (SOR - Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy):

  • At public hospitals
  • Free for everyone (even without insurance)
  • For serious emergencies: chest pain, severe injuries, difficulty breathing, etc.
  • Reality check: Emergency rooms are for emergencies. Don't go for a cold or minor issues – you'll wait forever and it's not appropriate.

For Non-Emergencies: Choose Your Path

Option 1: Public Clinic (Przychodnia)

How to find one:

  • Based on your address – you're assigned to a clinic
  • Check online or ask at your local health center
  • Usually one per neighborhood/district

How to make an appointment:

  • Call or visit in person
  • Might need to register first (bring ID, insurance card)
  • Usually need to wait days or weeks for appointment
  • Language barrier: Staff might not speak English

What you'll need:

  • ID (passport)
  • Insurance card (EHIC or private insurance)
  • PESEL number (if you have it)

Pro tip: Bring a Polish-speaking friend if possible. It makes everything easier.

Option 2: Private Clinic

How to find one:

  • Search online: "klinika prywatna [your city]" or "private clinic [your city]"
  • Ask other students or university international office
  • Look for clinics that mention "English-speaking doctors"

Popular private clinic chains:

  • Medicover – Large chain, many locations, English support
  • Lux Med – Another large chain, good for students
  • Enel-Med – Good coverage, student-friendly
  • Local private clinics – Often cheaper, check reviews

How to make an appointment:

  • Usually online booking (easiest)
  • Or call – many have English-speaking staff
  • Usually same day or within days
  • More flexible hours

What you'll need:

  • ID (passport)
  • Insurance card (if covered)
  • Payment method (card or cash)

Pro tip: Many private clinics have websites in English and online booking. Much easier than public system.

Option 3: University Health Services

Many universities have health services for students:

  • Usually free or low-cost
  • On or near campus
  • Student-friendly
  • Sometimes English-speaking staff

How to find:

  • Check your university website
  • Ask international student office
  • Usually in student services building

Pro tip: Check if your university has health services – it's often the easiest option for students.

Types of Doctors and Specialists

General Practitioner (Lekarz rodzinny / GP):

  • Primary care doctor
  • First point of contact
  • Can refer you to specialists
  • Usually at public clinics

Specialists (Specjaliści):

  • Internist (Internista) – General internal medicine
  • Dermatologist (Dermatolog) – Skin issues
  • Gynecologist (Ginekolog) – Women's health
  • Psychiatrist (Psychiatra) – Mental health
  • Dentist (Dentysta / Stomatolog) – Dental care
  • And many more...

How to see a specialist:

  • Public: Usually need referral from GP (can take weeks)
  • Private: Usually direct access, no referral needed
  • Emergency: Can go directly to hospital emergency

Pro tip: For specialists, private is usually faster and easier, especially if you need English-speaking doctor.

Making an Appointment: Step-by-Step

Let's walk through actually making an appointment, because it can be confusing the first time.

At a Public Clinic

Step 1: Find your assigned clinic

  • Based on your address
  • Check online or ask at local health center
  • You might need to register first

Step 2: Register (if needed)

  • Bring: ID, insurance card, proof of address
  • Fill out registration form
  • Get assigned to a doctor

Step 3: Make appointment

  • Call or visit in person
  • Say what you need (in Polish or English if they speak it)
  • Get appointment date (might be weeks away)

Step 4: Go to appointment

  • Arrive early
  • Bring: ID, insurance card, any previous medical records
  • Wait (might be long wait even with appointment)

Language barrier tips:

  • Bring a Polish-speaking friend
  • Write down your symptoms in Polish (use Google Translate)
  • Some clinics have English-speaking staff – ask when making appointment

Reality check: Public clinics can be frustrating due to bureaucracy and language barriers. But they're free, so if you can navigate it, it's worth it.

At a Private Clinic

Step 1: Find a clinic

  • Search online
  • Ask for recommendations
  • Check if they have English-speaking doctors

Step 2: Make appointment

  • Online: Usually easiest – book through website
  • Phone: Call and ask for English-speaking doctor
  • Usually same day or within days

Step 3: Go to appointment

  • Arrive on time (usually more punctual than public)
  • Bring: ID, insurance card (if covered), payment method
  • Usually shorter wait times

Pro tip: Many private clinics have online booking in English. Much easier than calling.

What to Expect: During Your Visit

So you've made it to the doctor. Here's what to expect:

At a Public Clinic

The process:

  1. Check in – Show ID, insurance card
  2. Wait – Might be long wait, even with appointment
  3. See doctor – Usually brief, might not speak English
  4. Get prescription – If needed, doctor writes prescription
  5. Pay – Usually free with insurance, sometimes small fee

What to bring:

  • ID (passport)
  • Insurance card (EHIC or private)
  • List of symptoms (in Polish if possible)
  • Any medications you're taking
  • Previous medical records (if relevant)

Language tips:

  • Write down symptoms in Polish
  • Bring a friend who speaks Polish
  • Use Google Translate app
  • Some doctors speak basic English – ask

Reality check: Public clinic visits can be quick and efficient, or slow and frustrating. It depends on the clinic, the doctor, and your luck. Be patient and prepared.

At a Private Clinic

The process:

  1. Check in – Show ID, insurance card (if covered)
  2. Wait – Usually short wait
  3. See doctor – Usually more time, often English-speaking
  4. Get prescription or treatment – As needed
  5. Pay – Usually 100-300 PLN, or covered by insurance

What to bring:

  • ID (passport)
  • Insurance card (if covered)
  • Payment method (card or cash)
  • List of symptoms
  • Any medications you're taking

Pro tip: Private clinics are usually more comfortable, less rushed, and English-friendly. Worth the cost for convenience.

Prescriptions and Medications

You've seen the doctor, and they've given you a prescription. Now what?

Getting Your Prescription Filled

Where to go:

  • Apteka (pharmacy) – Look for green cross sign
  • Pharmacies are everywhere in Poland
  • Usually open 8 AM - 8 PM, some 24/7
  • Most are well-stocked

What you need:

  • Prescription from doctor (recepta)
  • ID (sometimes asked)
  • Insurance card (for reduced prices with public insurance)

Cost:

  • With public insurance (NFZ/EHIC): Usually free or heavily discounted
  • Without insurance: Full price (but usually cheaper than Western Europe)
  • Over-the-counter: Pay full price

Pro tip: Many medications that require prescriptions in other countries are available over-the-counter in Poland. Ask the pharmacist – they're usually helpful and knowledgeable.

Common Medications Available Over-the-Counter

In Poland, you can often get without prescription:

  • Painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
  • Cold and flu medications
  • Basic antibiotics (sometimes)
  • Allergy medications
  • Basic skin treatments

Pro tip: Pharmacists in Poland are well-trained and can often help with minor issues. Don't hesitate to ask – they might save you a doctor visit.

Emergency Situations: What to Do

Let's talk about emergencies, because when something serious happens, you need to know what to do immediately.

When to Call 112 (Emergency)

Call 112 for:

  • Life-threatening emergencies – Chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe injuries
  • Serious accidents – Car accidents, falls, burns
  • Severe symptoms – Unconsciousness, severe pain, severe allergic reactions
  • Mental health emergencies – Suicide risk, severe mental health crisis

When NOT to call 112:

  • Minor injuries (cuts, bruises)
  • Colds, flu, minor illnesses
  • Routine health issues
  • Non-urgent questions

Reality check: 112 is for real emergencies. Don't call for minor issues – you'll tie up the line for people who actually need help.

What Happens When You Call 112

The process:

  1. Operator answers – Usually speaks Polish, but can get English translator
  2. You describe the emergency – What happened, where you are
  3. Ambulance is dispatched – Usually arrives within 10-20 minutes
  4. You're taken to hospital – Nearest emergency room
  5. Treatment – Emergency care is free for everyone

Important information to have ready:

  • Your location (exact address if possible)
  • What happened (brief description)
  • Your condition (if conscious)
  • Phone number (so they can call back)

Pro tip: If you don't speak Polish, say "English" or "Angielski" – they'll get a translator. Emergency services are used to dealing with international callers.

Going to the Emergency Room

When to go directly:

  • If you can't wait for ambulance
  • If you're near a hospital
  • For serious but not life-threatening issues

What to expect:

  • Triage – They assess how urgent your case is
  • Wait – Can be long if not life-threatening
  • Treatment – Free for everyone in emergency situations
  • Follow-up – Might be referred to regular doctor

Reality check: Emergency rooms are for emergencies. If you go for a cold or minor issue, you'll wait a long time and it's not appropriate. Use regular clinics for non-emergencies.

Mental Health: Getting Support

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and studying abroad can be stressful. Here's how to get help:

University Mental Health Services

Many universities offer:

  • Counseling services
  • Support groups
  • Mental health resources
  • Often free or low-cost for students

How to find:

  • Check university website
  • Ask international student office
  • Usually in student services or health center

Pro tip: University mental health services are often the easiest and cheapest option for students. Don't hesitate to use them.

Private Mental Health Services

Options:

  • Psychologists – For therapy and counseling
  • Psychiatrists – For medication and diagnosis
  • Private clinics – Often have mental health services
  • Online therapy – Some services available online

Cost:

  • Usually 150-300 PLN (€33-65) per session
  • Some insurance covers it
  • Some clinics offer student discounts

Finding English-speaking therapists:

  • Search online: "psycholog angielski [your city]"
  • Ask university international office
  • Check private clinic websites
  • Some offer online sessions

Pro tip: Mental health is important. Don't ignore it. If you're struggling, reach out. Many resources are available, and it's okay to ask for help.

Dental Care: What You Need to Know

Dental care is often separate from general healthcare. Here's what to know:

Public Dental Care

Coverage:

  • Emergency dental care – Usually covered with EHIC/public insurance
  • Routine care – Usually not covered or limited coverage
  • Cosmetic procedures – Not covered

Reality check: Public dental care is limited. Most people use private dentists for routine care.

Private Dental Care

Cost:

  • Checkup/cleaning: 100-200 PLN (€22-44)
  • Fillings: 150-400 PLN (€33-88)
  • Root canal: 500-1,000 PLN (€110-220)
  • Extractions: 100-300 PLN (€22-65)

Finding a dentist:

  • Search online: "dentysta [your city]"
  • Ask for recommendations
  • Many speak English (especially in larger cities)
  • Check reviews online

Pro tip: Dental care in Poland is usually cheaper than in Western Europe. Many international students get dental work done here. Shop around – prices vary.

Practical Tips and Common Mistakes

Let's wrap up with some practical tips and common mistakes to avoid:

Tips for Navigating Healthcare

1. Get insurance before you arrive

  • Don't wait until you need it
  • EHIC for EU students, private insurance for non-EU
  • Keep your insurance card with you always

2. Know your options

  • Public vs. private
  • When to use each
  • What your insurance covers

3. Find English-speaking doctors

  • Ask for recommendations
  • Check clinic websites
  • University health services often have English support

4. Keep basic medications at home

  • Painkillers, cold medicine, bandages
  • Many available over-the-counter
  • Saves you trips to doctor for minor issues

5. Learn basic Polish medical terms

  • "Ból" = pain
  • "Gorączka" = fever
  • "Apteka" = pharmacy
  • "Szpital" = hospital
  • "Lekarz" = doctor

6. Use university health services

  • Often easiest option for students
  • Usually free or low-cost
  • Student-friendly

7. Don't ignore mental health

  • It's just as important as physical health
  • Resources are available
  • It's okay to ask for help

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not having insurance

  • Medical costs are high without insurance
  • Required for visa/residence permit
  • Get it before you arrive

2. Going to emergency room for minor issues

  • Emergency rooms are for emergencies
  • Use regular clinics for non-emergencies
  • You'll wait forever and it's not appropriate

3. Not bringing insurance card

  • Always carry your insurance card
  • You'll need it at every visit
  • Make copies

4. Ignoring language barrier

  • Bring a Polish-speaking friend if possible
  • Write down symptoms in Polish
  • Use translation apps

5. Not knowing what your insurance covers

  • Read your policy
  • Know what's covered and what's not
  • Ask questions

6. Waiting too long for serious issues

  • Don't wait if it's serious
  • Go to emergency room if needed
  • Better safe than sorry

Reality check: Healthcare in Poland is good, but navigating it can be challenging. The key is being prepared, knowing your options, and not being afraid to ask for help. You've got this.

The Bottom Line: You're Covered

Navigating healthcare in Poland might seem complicated, but here's the truth: you're going to be fine. Polish healthcare is good quality, and once you understand the system, it's manageable. The key is:

  • Get the right insurance – EHIC for EU students, private for non-EU
  • Know your options – Public vs. private, when to use each
  • Be prepared – Keep insurance card with you, know where to go
  • Don't be afraid to ask – For help, for English-speaking doctors, for recommendations
  • Take care of yourself – Both physical and mental health matter

Remember: Healthcare is there to help you. Don't avoid it because it seems complicated. If you're sick or injured, get help. If you're struggling mentally, reach out. Your health matters, and there are resources available.

So take a deep breath, get your insurance sorted, and know that if you need healthcare, you'll be able to get it. Polish healthcare might be different from what you're used to, but it works, and you'll figure it out.

Stay healthy! 🏥🇵🇱

Need more help? Check out our other guides on living in Poland, practical tips, and managing your finances as an international student.