Lekarz rodzinny do domu – kiedy i jak zamówić wizytę w Polsce

When you need medical help but can’t get to the clinic, lekarz rodzinny do domu, specjalista, który przyjeżdża do pacjenta w domu, by ocenić stan zdrowia i zatwierdzić leczenie. Also known as lekarz rodziny z dojazdem, it is a standard service under Poland’s public healthcare system, designed for people who are too ill, elderly, or mobility-impaired to travel. This isn’t a luxury – it’s your legal right if you meet basic medical criteria.

Most people think only seniors qualify, but that’s not true. A child with high fever, someone recovering from surgery, or a person with severe mobility issues after a stroke – all can request a home visit. The NFZ, Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia, which funds public healthcare services in Poland covers these visits fully, with no extra charge. You don’t pay for the doctor’s time, travel, or examination. The only catch? You must prove you truly can’t get to the clinic. A simple phone call to your primary care provider or the regional NFZ line is enough to start the process.

But here’s the problem: many don’t know how to ask properly. You can’t just say “I’m sick.” You need to explain why you’re unable to move – “I can’t stand for more than a minute,” “I fell last week and my leg won’t support me,” or “My 82-year-old mother has dementia and won’t leave the house.” These details matter. The system doesn’t automatically know your situation – you have to tell it clearly. And if the doctor refuses? Ask why. If it’s because “you’re not sick enough,” ask for a written explanation. You have the right to appeal.

Private visits exist too – for those who want faster service or a specific doctor. But they cost between 150 and 400 zł, depending on time of day and distance. These are not covered by NFZ. Still, many choose them because waiting for a public home visit can take hours, or even a full day. If you’re in pain, feverish, or scared, waiting isn’t an option.

What happens during the visit? The doctor checks your temperature, blood pressure, listens to your heart and lungs, asks about symptoms, and may take blood or swabs. They can write prescriptions, issue sick leaves, or refer you to a specialist. If they think you need hospital care, they’ll call an ambulance – no need to wait for one yourself. Many patients don’t realize the doctor can also order home nursing or equipment like oxygen tanks or wheelchairs right then and there.

And what about the opieka domowa, system of ongoing medical care provided at home for chronic or post-hospital patients? That’s different. It’s for long-term needs – daily wound care, IV therapy, or regular monitoring for heart or diabetes patients. A home visit is one-time. Opieka domowa is ongoing. You can have both.

Don’t assume your lekarz rodzinny will come to you unless you ask. They’re busy. They don’t automatically know you’re stuck at home. Call your clinic. Call NFZ. Call your neighbor if you need help dialing. This service exists to help people like you – not to make you jump through hoops. If you’re eligible, you deserve it. And if you’re unsure? Check the posts below. You’ll find real stories from people who’ve been there: how they got the visit, what went wrong, what worked, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.