– We are presenting fundamental changes that will involve a major reform of primary healthcare. We worked on this reform for the past year, and developed its assumptions largely on the basis of patients’ expectations. That is why, from July, we will expand the range of diagnostic tests ordered by primary healthcare doctors – Health Minister Adam Niedzielski announced during a press conference.

Which tests will be on the list?

The list will include, among others:

  • a rapid test detecting streptococcal antigen,
  • tests for anti-CCP antibodies to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis,
  • tests for antibodies against the hepatitis C virus.

Ministry: – Expanding diagnostic testing will shorten the waiting time for a diagnosis and, consequently, for the implementation of appropriate treatment.

– We want to introduce proactive care, which will become the new standard in healthcare. Primary healthcare doctors will receive bonuses if their patients are properly cared for and referred for appropriate tests – A. Niedzielski said.

Patients with chronic illnesses will be managed as much as possible at the primary healthcare level, rather than simply being referred to specialists. Some conditions, such as diabetes, can be managed by a primary healthcare doctor.

– There is to be more diagnostic testing and coordinated care. We are also introducing consultations between primary healthcare doctors and specialist doctors in order to streamline the patient treatment process – the minister added.

As part of coordinated care, patients will be able to undergo tests in cardiology, diabetology, endocrinology and pulmonology. The system for settling nursing services will also change. – Another very important element is prevention, which must be the foundation of the healthcare benefits pyramid. Prevention should help us remain in good health for as long as possible – the minister stressed.

Ministry of Health:

The reform envisages major changes to the cardiovascular disease prevention programme – a larger group of patients will qualify for testing (aged 35–65), and nurses will be able to carry out the programme independently, instead of it being conducted by primary healthcare doctors as before. The primary healthcare reform programme was developed by a team led by the national consultant in family medicine, Prof. Agnieszka Mastalerz-Migas.

What do you think? We invite you to join the discussion.