By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Poland’s new “My Health” program expands upon the previous “Prevention 40+” initiative by offering free health screenings to all adults aged 20 and older, enabling regular checkups every three to five years, including follow-up consultations. The program, implemented across all primary health care centers, uses personalized questionnaires to tailor recommended tests and create individual health plans, encompassing vaccinations and preventive measures. Medical professionals have praised the program’s patient-centric approach, focusing on action rather than just test results. However, the program’s success will depend on addressing existing healthcare shortages and ensuring patients follow through on recommended advice.
Read the original article here
Poland has launched a groundbreaking free preventative healthcare programme, “Moje Zdrowie” (My Health), designed for individuals aged 20 and older. This initiative represents a significant expansion of an earlier scheme, “Profilaktyka 40+”, which was limited to those over 40. The shift towards earlier preventative care is a proactive approach to long-term health management and cost savings.
This new programme isn’t just a one-time health check; it provides regular checkups. Individuals aged 20 to 49 can utilize the programme once every five years, while those 50 and older can access it every three. This regular access allows for continuous monitoring of health indicators and the potential for early intervention.
The programme begins with a comprehensive questionnaire, either online or in person, covering various aspects of an individual’s health, lifestyle, family history, and mental well-being. This detailed information enables the creation of a tailored list of recommended tests specific to each individual’s needs and risk factors.
Primary healthcare centers are responsible for contacting participants within 30 days of questionnaire completion to schedule the recommended tests. Following the testing, a follow-up consultation with a medical professional is provided to discuss the results and formulate a personalized health plan.
The basic testing package includes a comprehensive range of blood tests (blood count, glucose, creatinine, lipid profile, thyroid hormones), urinalysis, and other essential checks. Depending on the questionnaire results and age, additional tests such as liver function tests, PSA (for men), anti-HCV (hepatitis C), and stool tests may be ordered. This tailored approach ensures that individuals receive the specific testing necessary to address their particular health concerns.
Registration is straightforward and accessible through various channels, including the Internet Patient Account (IKP), the Moje IKP app, or directly at a primary health care centre. The convenience and accessibility of registration are designed to encourage participation and remove barriers to accessing preventative care.
The Polish health minister, Izabela Leszczyna, highlighted the importance of this programme, emphasizing the tendency for adults to neglect their own health despite the regular preventative examinations provided for children and adolescents. “My Health” aims to cultivate a habit of routine screenings and promote personal responsibility for health management.
Medical professionals have praised this initiative, noting its significant improvement over the previous programme. Unlike the earlier scheme, “My Health” is described as patient-friendly and action-oriented, focusing not only on collecting test results but also on providing follow-up care and personalized health plans. This emphasis on proactive care is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of preventative measures.
The launch of “Moje Zdrowie” comes at a time when Poland, like many countries, faces a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in primary care and rural areas. While Poland’s doctor-to-population ratio is comparable to the OECD average, its nurse-to-population ratio falls significantly short. This challenge underscores the importance of preventative care in reducing the strain on the healthcare system.
Despite the challenges, Poland’s commitment to preventative healthcare, as demonstrated by “Moje Zdrowie,” reflects a forward-thinking approach to healthcare management. By investing in early detection and prevention, Poland aims to improve the overall health of its population while simultaneously mitigating the long-term costs associated with treating preventable diseases. This programme demonstrates a commitment to a more proactive and cost-effective approach to healthcare, potentially setting an example for other nations grappling with similar challenges. The initiative’s emphasis on personalized care and accessible services aims to engage individuals actively in their own health journeys, fostering a more sustainable and healthier society.