Lekarz za granicą: co wiesz o opiece medycznej poza Polską?

When you need a doctor abroad, you’re not on your own — lekarz za granicą, to specjalista, który może przyjąć pacjenta z Polski w ramach europejskiego systemu opieki zdrowotnej. Also known as doktor za granicą, it enables you to get care in any EU country without paying upfront — if you have the right documents. To get care in Germany, Spain, or Italy, you don’t need to find a private clinic right away. You just need your karta Europejska ubezpieczenia zdrowotnego, dokument potwierdzający prawo do opieki medycznej w krajach UE/EEA i Szwajcarii. This card is free, issued by your Polish health insurer, and works just like your NFZ card — but abroad.

But here’s what most people don’t realize: NFZ za granicą, to nie znaczy, że wszystko jest darmowe. You’ll get the same treatment as a local patient, but only if the service is covered in that country. In Germany, a specialist visit might be free. In France, you might pay 20 euros and get reimbursed later. In Switzerland, you often pay upfront and claim back later — and the rules change by region. And if you’re not in the EU? Then you’re on your own. That’s why many Poles traveling to the UK, USA, or Canada buy travel insurance — because NFZ doesn’t cover them there.

What about emergencies? If you have a heart attack in Barcelona or a broken leg in Prague, go to the nearest hospital. Show your European Health Insurance Card, and you’ll be treated. No questions asked. But if you need a follow-up with a specialist — say, a dermatologist for a rash or a dentist for a toothache — you need to plan ahead. Some clinics speak Polish. Others don’t. Some accept the card. Others don’t. And if you’re staying longer than three months? You might need to register locally. That’s when ubezpieczenie zdrowotne za granicą, to nie tylko karta, ale czasem konieczność podpisania lokalnego ubezpieczenia. becomes a reality.

And what if you just want to see a doctor for convenience? Many Poles travel to Slovakia or Hungary for cheaper dental work or cosmetic procedures. That’s fine — but it’s private care. You pay out of pocket, and NFZ won’t refund you. The same goes for mental health services, physiotherapy, or even a simple check-up. If you’re not using the EHIC, you’re in the private market. Prices vary wildly. A blood test in Poland might cost 80 zł. In Austria, it’s 120 euro. In Bulgaria, it’s 30 euro. Know what you’re paying for.

You’ll find real stories below — from people who got treated in Italy after a fall, to those who waited months for a specialist in Germany, to those who paid for a private neurologist in Prague because the public system was too slow. These aren’t theoretical guides. These are people who faced the same choices you’re facing now. Whether you’re traveling for vacation, work, or long-term stay, knowing how the system works saves you stress, money, and time. Below, you’ll see exactly how others handled it — what worked, what didn’t, and what you should do before you even pack your bag.