The potential for changing the health care system within the current Polish transformations

The health care system in Poland is characterised by central planning, by lack of separation of the preventive function and by being financed by the state. The author proposes a new approach which is now feasible within the framework of a democratic, elected government. Certain factors are proposed which will create a different and more effective health care system responsive to local need. These factors include separation of preventive and therapeutic functions, the provision of both public and private health insurance and local determination of needs and services.