New regulations in Poland: Combating pseudomedical practices
The Polish government has adopted a draft of new regulations aimed at curbing the spread of false medical information. These changes grant the Patient Ombudsman significantly greater powers in the fight against so-called pseudoscience and harmful therapies that lack scientific validation.
Currently, many patients in Poland use the services of individuals who lack proper medical education, and the treatment methods they offer can be dangerous to health. The new law is primarily intended to protect citizens from fraud and the promotion of methods that may delay the pursuit of effective treatment in professional facilities.
With these new powers, the Patient Ombudsman will be able to react more effectively to cases of misinformation spreading online and in traditional media. The institution will gain tools allowing for faster issuance of decisions to cease practices that mislead patients regarding their health status or the effectiveness of the products offered.
Experts emphasize that this is an important step toward improving the health safety of Poles. Increasing oversight of the medical services market is intended to help build greater trust in evidence-based medicine and limit the influence of individuals who exploit the fear of the sick for their own financial gain.
The draft bill will now proceed to further work in parliament. If adopted, the new rules will take effect nationwide, marking a significant change in the Polish healthcare system.