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Free medical tests will help make Poles healthier: PM

26.05.2021 06:00
A new programme of free medical check-ups aims to make Poles healthier by ensuring early detection and treatment for a broad section of the public, the country's prime minister has said.
Polands Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki speaks to reporters during a visit to the northern town of Nidzica on May 21, 2021.
Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki speaks to reporters during a visit to the northern town of Nidzica on May 21, 2021.Photo: PAP/Tomasz Waszczuk

Millions of Poles over 40 are expected to be able to take advantage of the new medical plan, which is scheduled for launch in the middle of this year.

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told reporters that the “40-plus prevention programme" is designed to "identify potential health risks and catch diseases at the earliest possible stage."

The bottom line is to ensure that "professional treatment is provided to all those in need as soon as possible," he said.

The “40-plus prevention programme” is expected to include a set of basic tests for all those eligible and an extended version for those in need of closer attention.

The initiative comes as the government promises to improve access to healthcare for patients suffering from conditions other than COVID-19.

Health Minister Adam Niedzielski said at the end of last week that the new “40-plus prevention programme” would be launched in July, after a delay due to the coronavirus pandemic.

An ambitious "Polish New Deal" initiative unveiled by the country’s ruling conservatives earlier this month provides for a massive cash injection into the national health system, with healthcare spending expected to rise to 7 percent of GDP by 2027.

Poland's ruling conservatives in October 2019 pledged to bring in a raft of new policies including free medical tests for everyone aged over 40.

(gs)

Source: PAP