Image Credit: assumption111/123rf.com
Poland has launched a nationwide preventive healthcare initiative aimed at promoting early detection of health issues among adults aged 20 and older. The program, named Moje Zdrowie (“My Health”), expands upon the previous Profilaktyka 40+ (“Prevention 40+”) scheme, which was limited to individuals over 40. Moje Zdrowie allows adults aged 20 to 49 to participate in screenings every five years, while those aged 50 and older can access screenings every three years.
This new program is designed for ongoing use and emphasizes the importance of routine health checkups for adults. It begins with a detailed questionnaire covering lifestyle, family history, and mental health, which can be completed online or in person. Participants will receive a customized list of recommended tests, which must be scheduled within 30 days.
The standard test package includes a complete blood count, glucose and creatinine levels, lipid profile, thyroid hormones, and urinalysis. Older participants may also be referred for additional diagnostics, such as liver function tests and PSA levels for men. Following the tests, patients will receive a personalized health plan that includes vaccination schedules and preventive care recommendations.
The launch of Moje Zdrowie is a response to previous limitations in the healthcare system, particularly concerning follow-up after receiving test results. Unlike its predecessor, the new program incorporates mandatory consultations with doctors, aiming to improve patient engagement and adherence to health guidance.
While the initiative represents a significant advancement in Poland’s healthcare approach, it is being introduced amid challenges such as staffing shortages, particularly in rural areas. Poland’s healthcare system has struggled with a lower number of nurses compared to the OECD average and insufficient healthcare spending, which was only 6.4% of the country’s GDP in 2022.
Despite these challenges, the Moje Zdrowie program is seen as a meaningful step toward a proactive approach to health, focusing on prevention rather than reactive treatment. By encouraging routine health screenings and follow-up care, Poland aims to foster a culture of health awareness that could serve as a model for other nations.
Check out the original article here: Source link
