As UOKiK and RPP continue their investigations, it is crucial for healthcare providers to address these concerns and implement practices that promote equality and transparency.
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) has recently launched an investigation into the appointment scheduling practices of major private healthcare networks in Poland. This move comes in response to numerous complaints from patients about long waiting times for medical consultations, despite claims of immediate availability for private pay patients.
Key issues raised by patients
One of the primary concerns is the discrepancies in appointment availability. Patients have reported significant delays in securing appointments when using subscription-based services compared to paying out-of-pocket. This raises questions about the fairness and transparency of these practices.
Regulatory oversight
UOKiK, in collaboration with the Patient Rights Ombudsman (RPP), is closely monitoring these issues. Their goal is to ensure that private healthcare providers adhere to fair practices and do not mislead patients regarding the availability of medical services.
Impact on patients
The investigation highlights the frustration and potential health risks faced by patients who are unable to access timely medical care. This situation is particularly concerning for those with urgent health needs.
Impacts on organisations offering private medical care
The ongoing scrutiny by UOKiK and the Patient Rights Ombudsman underscores the critical importance of transparency and fairness in the healthcare sector. For organisations offering private medical insurance as an employee benefit, this investigation highlights the need to ensure that their employees receive timely and equitable access to medical services.
When employees choose private healthcare through their employer’s insurance plan, they often do so with the expectation of receiving prompt and high-quality care. However, the discrepancies in appointment availability between different payment methods can lead to significant frustration and dissatisfaction. Employees who rely on their employer-provided insurance may feel disadvantaged by longer waiting times compared to those who pay for services directly.
Balancing financial models with patient care
This situation highlights a fundamental issue in the healthcare system: the need for providers to balance financial models with patient care. Ensuring that all patients, including those covered by employer-provided insurance, receive fair treatment is essential for maintaining trust and confidence in private healthcare services.
As UOKiK and RPP continue their investigations, it is crucial for healthcare providers to address these concerns and implement practices that promote equality and transparency. By doing so, they can help alleviate employee frustration and ensure everyone has access to the medical care they need, when they need it.
To discuss how this investigation impacts your organisations private medical insurance offering, speak to one of our experts:
Edyta Nowak-Skawska
Practice Leader Health & Benefits
GrECo Poland
T +48 882 366 293
