From totalitarianism to pluralism in Poland

Abstract

An analysis of the social ramifications of the proposed health care reforms in Poland Is presented. Poland's health care system is undergoing profound change. The consequences of these changes may not be fully appreciated by the government, its representative, or the public at large. Health care has long been the victim of political ideology in Poland and it seems that it still is. For example, decentralization and privatization are seen as the solutions to all problems, in large measure because national and local budgets are not sufficient to cover the costs of care. However, most citizens cannot afford the cost burden and believe that all citizens should have a minimum level of social protection and that certain vulnerable groups (e.g. children, handicapped persons, the elderly) should not be required to pay for services. The new reforms must go hand in hand with changes in infrastructure and need to consider social attitudes towards personal responsibility for health.