Health and Health Protection of the Polish Population

Abstract

This report, drafted by members of a discussion group (Experience and the Future) consisting primarily of Polish physicians, concerns the problems of personal health and of the health care system in Poland in recent years. Data are presented on key indicators of the health of the Polish population, including mortality, incidence rates of viral and infectious diseases, child health, occupational health, care of the disabled, and alcohol consumption, and a program for improving these indicators is set forth. In addition, achievable short- and long-term goals for the health sector are suggested. It is maintained that many of the unsolved problems in Poland's health sector result from its structure. The foundation on which the health pyramid should rest—primary care in local medical institutions—is the weakest element in the system, whereas the top of the pyramid—specialized, technologically oriented hospitals—is given highest priority.