Category: Stay healthy

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and in today’s world, more and more people are struggling with emotional challenges. Stress, burnout, depression, and anxiety disorders are just some of the issues modern society faces. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), over 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and mental disorders are one of the leading causes of work incapacity. Access to professional psychological care is therefore not just a matter of comfort but a necessity. This is why more and more health insurance policies now include psychological and psychiatric support.

The public healthcare system in Poland offers psychological assistance, but in many cases, patients may have to wait several months for an appointment. According to data from the National Health Fund (NFZ), the average waiting time for a psychiatrist appointment under public healthcare is around 150 days, and for psychotherapists, it can be even longer. During this time, the patient’s condition may significantly worsen. Private health insurance eliminates this problem by providing quick access to specialists and individually tailored treatment methods.

Comprehensive health insurance that includes psychological care gives patients the opportunity to access therapy tailored to their needs. Such policies often cover psychological consultations, psychiatric visits, and access to cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is one of the most effective methods for treating anxiety and depressive disorders. Additionally, some insurance packages also offer online support, which is particularly important for individuals with limited mobility or those living abroad.

Investing in mental health through appropriate insurance is a step toward better well-being and effective daily functioning. Awareness of the importance of mental health is growing, and with it, the demand for professional support. Thanks to private health insurance, patients can receive the necessary help without long waiting times and focus on regaining full mental balance. In today’s world, caring for the mind is just as crucial as caring for the body – it’s worth remembering this when choosing health insurance.

We live in times when our brains are put through a real marathon. Stress, unhealthy diets, lack of sleep, and hours spent in front of screens are the daily reality for many of us. But are we aware of how these factors affect our nervous system? Do Poles truly take care of their brains, or are they making mistakes that could have serious consequences? We discuss how to protect one of the most important organs in our body with Dr. Marcin Marcinowski, a neurolog from CopernicusMed in Toruń.

This article was created in collaboration with CopernicusMed in Toruń.

Sleep? No Time for That!

The first mistake we make is underestimating sleep. “Many patients come to me with issues like poor concentration, memory problems, and chronic fatigue. When we start talking, it turns out they sleep only 4-5 hours a night,” says Dr. Marcinowski. “Sleep is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s when the brain regenerates, organizes information, and removes toxins. If we neglect it, the consequences can be serious: from memory problems to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.”

But it’s not just about the quantity of sleep; quality matters too. “An irregular lifestyle, shift work, and scrolling through social media in the evening all disrupt the natural circadian rhythm,” adds the neurologist. “It’s worth focusing on sleep hygiene: regular sleep times, a dark and quiet room, and avoiding screens an hour before bed.”

Fast Food for the Brain? No, Thanks!

The next major sin is diet. “The brain is a very demanding organ. It needs the right fuel to function properly,” explains Dr. Marcinowski. “Unfortunately, many people feed it fast food, sweets, and processed foods. It’s like pouring bad fuel into an engine – sooner or later, it will start to fail.”

So, what should be on your plate to support your brain? “Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts, and chia seeds, are essential for proper neuron function. Antioxidants, present in vegetables and fruits, protect the brain from oxidative stress. Magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins are also crucial components that should not be missing from your diet,” lists the specialist. “And what should you avoid? Sugar, trans fats, and artificial additives. These not only harm the brain but also affect our mood and ability to concentrate.”

Exercise Isn’t Just for the Body

A sedentary lifestyle is another problem. “Many of us spend entire days in front of computers and evenings on the couch. This not only harms the heart and spine but also the brain,” says Dr. Marcinowski. “Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, supports neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to adapt – and stimulates the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for well-being.”

You don’t have to run marathons right away. “Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day is enough: walking, cycling, or yoga,” emphasizes the neurologist. “What’s important is that the activity is regular and enjoyable. It’s not just an investment in brain health but also a way to reduce stress.”

Stress – The Silent Killer of the Brain

And speaking of stress – it’s another enemy of our nervous system. “Cortisol, the stress hormone, is needed in small doses. But when there’s too much of it, it becomes toxic to neurons, especially in areas responsible for memory and emotions,” explains Dr. Marcinowski. “Chronic stress can lead to depression, anxiety, and even increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.”

How to manage it? “Relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are very effective,” says the specialist. “It’s also important to make time for rest, contact with nature, and hobbies. These aren’t luxuries; they’re necessities if we want to maintain brain health.”

Screens vs. Nature

In the era of smartphones, tablets, and computers, it’s hard to avoid excessive screen time. “Constant use of electronic devices leads to overstimulation of the nervous system,” says Dr. Marcinowski. “This can result in problems with concentration, irritability, and even insomnia. That’s why it’s worth setting rules: no screens an hour before bed, regular breaks when working on a computer.”

On the other hand, contact with nature is like a balm for the brain. “Walks in the forest, spending time by the water, or even sitting in a park – all of this helps reduce stress, improve mood, and support brain function,” adds the neurologist.

When to See a Neurologist?

Many people downplay the first signs of neurological problems. “Frequent headaches, memory issues, chronic fatigue, and mood changes are signals that should not be ignored,” warns Dr. Marcinowski. “Early diagnosis can prevent more serious diseases. So, if something worries you, it’s worth consulting a specialist.”

Summary: The Brain Isn’t a Muscle, but It Needs Training Too

Taking care of your brain means taking care of your quality of life. “It’s not difficult,” assures Dr. Marcinowski. “All it takes is a healthy diet, regular sleep, exercise, stress reduction, and paying attention to the signals your body sends. The brain is our command center. If we take care of it, it will reward us with sharpness, well-being, and protection against diseases.”

5 Questions for Dr. Marcin Marcinowski, Neurolog at CopernicusMed in Toruń

1. What are the most common mistakes Poles make when it comes to brain health?
   “Most often, they underestimate sleep. Many of us sleep too little or irregularly, leading to memory and concentration problems. The second mistake is a poor diet, rich in processed foods and lacking in nutrients essential for the brain.”
2. What are the most effective stress-reduction methods?
   “Meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are great tools. It’s important to find a method that works for you and use it regularly. Contact with nature also works wonders.”
3. How does physical activity affect the brain?
   “Exercise improves blood flow to the brain, supports neurogenesis, and stimulates the production of neurotransmitters. Even a 30-minute walk a day can bring significant benefits.”
4. When should we see a neurologist?
   “If you notice frequent headaches, memory problems, chronic fatigue, or mood changes, it’s worth consulting a specialist. Early diagnosis is key.”
5. What are the latest trends in preventing neurological diseases?
   “There’s increasing talk about nutraceuticals – natural substances that support the brain, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. A holistic approach combining treatment with lifestyle modifications is also important.”

In Poland, more and more people are opting for private healthcare. Why? There are many reasons: quick access to specialists, no waiting lists, comfortable treatment conditions, and a wide range of services. But how do you choose the best offer that truly meets your expectations? And what should you pay attention to in order to avoid overpaying? We discuss this with medical industry experts and patients who use private health insurance.

Why Private Healthcare?

“In the public healthcare system, the waiting time for a specialist appointment can take several months. In private healthcare, you can often schedule a consultation within a few days,” says Dr. Anna Kowalska, an internist at the CopernicusMed clinic in Warsaw. “This is especially important in the case of chronic illnesses or urgent conditions, where time plays a crucial role.”

But that’s not the only advantage. “Private facilities offer modern equipment, comfortable treatment conditions, and an individualized approach to the patient,” adds Dr. Kowalska. “All of this translates into the quality of medical care.”

What to Consider When Choosing Insurance?

1. Range of Services
   “Before signing a contract, it’s worth carefully analyzing what the policy covers,” advises Tomasz Marusiarz, a health insurance expert at Medisky International. “Does it include specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, hospitalization, or even dental care and rehabilitation? The broader the range, the better.”

It’s also worth checking if the insurance covers chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, and if it provides assistance in case of sudden illnesses abroad.

2. Network of Facilities
   “It’s crucial that the medical facilities cooperating with the insurer are easily accessible,” says Dr. Kowalska. “If you live in a small town, make sure there are clinics and hospitals in your area that accept your insurance.”
3. Visit and Test Limits
   “Some policies have limits on the number of specialist visits or diagnostic tests per year,” warns Nowak. “If you have chronic health issues, choose an offer without such restrictions.”
4. Additional Benefits
   “More and more insurers offer additional perks, such as access to telemedicine, preventive programs, or discounts on medications,” says Nowak. “This can be a significant factor when choosing a policy.”
5. Cost
   “Price is, of course, an important factor, but it shouldn’t be the only criterion,” emphasizes Dr. Kowalska. “Cheap insurance may prove insufficient in the event of a serious illness. It’s better to pay more but have the assurance of comprehensive care when needed.”

Medisky International – A Leader in Private Healthcare

One of the most respected companies offering private health insurance in Poland is Medisky International. “Our policies stand out due to their broad range of services, flexibility, and high-quality customer service,” says Marta Wiśniewska from Medisky’s Customer Service Department. “We provide access to the best specialists, modern diagnostic tests, and preventive programs that help prevent diseases.”

What else sets Medisky apart? “We cooperate with over 1,000 medical facilities across Poland, ensuring easy access to healthcare for our clients,” adds Wiśniewska. “Additionally, we offer 24/7 support, including telemedicine, which allows consultations with a doctor without leaving home.”

Patient Opinions

“I’ve been using Medisky insurance for several years now, and I’m very satisfied,” says Katarzyna, a 34-year-old teacher from Krakow. “When I had thyroid issues, I quickly got an appointment with an endocrinologist and completed all the necessary tests. I didn’t have to wait in lines or worry about costs.”

Piotr, a 45-year-old entrepreneur from Warsaw, shares a similar opinion. “I chose Medisky because of the wide range of services and no visit limits. Thanks to this, I can regularly monitor my health without worrying about additional costs.”

Investing in Health

Choosing private healthcare is a decision that can have a huge impact on your life. “It’s not just a matter of convenience but, above all, safety,” emphasizes Dr. Kowalska. “Good health insurance is an investment in your health that can pay off in the future.”

If you’re looking for the best offer, it’s worth comparing different options, paying attention to the range of services, the network of facilities, and additional benefits. And if you care about the highest quality of care, Medisky International is a brand you can trust.

Access to high-quality healthcare is a key factor influencing quality of life and a sense of security. In Poland, there are two primary models of healthcare: the public system, funded by contributions to the National Health Fund (NFZ), and the private system, based on individual payments or health insurance. More and more people are facing the dilemma – is it better to rely solely on public healthcare, or is it worth investing in private health insurance? Let’s take a closer look at the facts, statistics, and costs associated with both options.

1. The State of Public Healthcare in Poland – Waiting Times and Limitations

The public system in Poland theoretically guarantees free medical care for all insured individuals. In practice, however, patients often face long waiting times, limited access to specialists, and issues with the quality of services.

According to data from the Watch Health Care Foundation in 2023:

• The average waiting time for a specialist appointment is 3.5 months, but in some fields of medicine, patients may wait much longer.
• Cataract surgery – the average waiting time is 460 days, and in some regions, it exceeds 2 years.
• MRI scans – the average waiting time under the NFZ is 200 days.
• CT scans – the average waiting time is over 100 days.
• Appointment with an endocrinologist – patients wait over 8 months.

Long waiting times are one issue, but equally important is the limited access to modern therapies and preventive care. Many medical procedures, such as innovative cancer treatments or advanced orthopedic surgeries, are either not reimbursed or require long waiting periods.

2. Costs and Availability of Private Healthcare

Private healthcare offers quick access to doctors and modern diagnostic tests, but it comes with additional costs. Prices for services in private clinics vary depending on location and the scope of services.

Examples of costs for visits and tests in private facilities in Poland (2023 data):

• Specialist consultation – 200–500 PLN (e.g., cardiologist, neurologist, orthopedist).
• MRI scan – 500–1,500 PLN (depending on the area examined).
• CT scan – 300–800 PLN.
• Abdominal ultrasound – 150–300 PLN.
• Basic laboratory tests – 100–300 PLN.
• Private colonoscopy – from 800 PLN.
• Surgical procedures – from 5,000 PLN for minor surgeries to up to 50,000 PLN for more complex procedures.

For individuals who regularly use medical services, these expenses can become a significant burden. An alternative to paying for each visit or test individually is private health insurance, which helps avoid high one-time costs.

3. How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost?

In Poland, more and more companies offer private health packages. The cost of health insurance depends on the scope of services and the age of the insured. Examples of monthly premiums:

• Basic health insurance package – 150–300 PLN/month (covers basic specialist consultations and diagnostic tests).
• Extended health insurance – 300–600 PLN/month (includes hospitalization, imaging tests, and rehabilitation).
• Comprehensive policies – 600–1,500 PLN/month (covers surgeries, hospital stays, and treatment abroad).

Annually, this translates to costs ranging from 1,800 PLN to even 18,000 PLN. While this may initially seem like a significant expense, it helps avoid the need to pay for each service separately.

4. Which Option is More Cost-Effective?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Public Healthcare

✅ Advantages:

• Free services for insured individuals.
• Full coverage for hospital treatment.
• Access to most specialists and diagnostic tests (albeit with long waiting times).

❌ Disadvantages:

• Long waiting times for specialists.
• Limited access to modern therapies.
• The need to seek private solutions in emergencies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Private Healthcare

✅ Advantages:

• Quick access to specialists (often within a few days).
• Shorter waiting times for diagnostic tests.
• Higher comfort of care and personalized approach to patients.

❌ Disadvantages:

• Costs (in the case of private treatment without insurance).
• Lack of full coverage for serious surgeries (some procedures may require significant additional payments).

5. Summary – What to Choose?

The choice between public and private healthcare depends on several key factors:

• Frequency of using medical services – healthy individuals who rarely visit doctors may rely mainly on the NFZ, opting for private care only in exceptional situations.
• Expectations regarding quality and waiting times – if quick access to doctors is important, private healthcare is a better solution.
• Budget – private health insurance requires regular premiums but helps avoid sudden expenses in case of illness.

For many people, the optimal solution is a combination of both systems – using the NFZ for hospitalization and basic care, while also having private health insurance to ensure quick access to specialists and diagnostics.

Author: Dr Renata Pajewska-Kwaśny

Pregnancy and childbirth are special events in the life of a woman and her entire family. The experience of this period is the subject of many ladies’ memories long after the experience. But if it is so important, exciting and special, can we prepare for it properly and take care of all its aspects?

The time of waiting for the birth is most often associated with preparing the room for the baby, buying the right accessories to make it easier to take care of the baby, studying how-to books and professional literature to help the mother-to-be and her relatives to cope with the new situation.

Preparations also include health issues, including keeping the pregnant woman in good shape. Many women take an appropriate diet long before becoming pregnant. They check their blood results and other health parameters and change their lifestyle to prepare their bodies for this extraordinary challenge.

Health issues undoubtedly dominate this special period. It is also worth focusing on the financial threads associated with this new challenge as part of the preparations. In all of this, it is important that the parents-to-be, despite the great stress, emotions and enormous unknowns they are facing, take care to ensure their safety, comfort and certainty that they will be able to take advantage of additional help at any time, especially medical, but also financial.

When planning to expand your family, it is worth considering the option of taking out special health insurance dedicated to pregnant women. Thanks to this insurance, professional, specialised health care will be guaranteed both during these nine special months, during childbirth and in the postnatal period. This will ensure that the young mother and her child are well protected without worrying about the costs involved.

Although, according to the law, every pregnant woman and child up to the age of 18 in Poland is guaranteed health care within the framework of the National Health Fund (NFZ), many people choose to use commercial health care services during this period. Access is faster in many cases, the range of examinations is wider, and the time and attention given to a pregnant woman in a private practice gives a greater sense of security. In addition, there are many more factors that drive mothers-to-be to consult additional specialists. We simply want to be sure, much more than the proverbial 100 per cent, that our health and especially the development of the baby is going well and does not raise concerns in the opinion of every doctor we visit.

As usual in such a situation, we have a choice between two ways of ensuring our access to additional medical care: ad hoc visits to specialists, for which we pay for each consultation and diagnostic test carried out, or we opt for an appropriate protection programme, including pregnancy management, for which we pay the same monthly premium regardless of the number and frequency of services obtained. 

If we choose the first course of action, it may turn out that already after the first trimester, the value of the bills paid for several visits and a dozen or so analyses plus an ultrasound examination – may significantly compromise the family budget, and this is only the beginning of our great pregnancy adventure.

It is therefore worth considering the choice of a well-chosen health insurance policy, guaranteeing coverage of healthcare costs in the commercial sector, which is dedicated to women expecting a baby. A well-chosen policy should, above all, be comprehensive: it should cover diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy, postnatal care for mum and baby and midwife consultations. It is also worth considering where the birth will take place and whether this can also be included in the insurance plan.

It should be noted that although many insurance companies offer health insurance, insurance dedicated to pregnant women is a niche product and only a few insurers have included it in their plan. In addition, it is worth paying attention to whether, when deciding to take out such insurance, you are not in a situation that prevents you from taking full advantage of the cover. I am referring here to ‘exclusions’, which may relate to a particular health condition of a woman planning to become pregnant or her age.

We most often associate the word insurance with risk, something unexpected, surprising, additional costs, loss.  Can we think of insurance during pregnancy in this context? How do we juxtapose and reconcile these two associations? After all, a fundamental principle in insurance is that you cannot take out cover in the face of an event that is certain and predictable.  Therefore, in order to provide yourself with protection in the form of medical cover during pregnancy – you need to meet one basic condition: before you can enjoy the benefits of such a policy, you need to buy it a few months or even 1 year before you find yourself in a different state. This so-called grace period is determined by each insurer on its individual terms and conditions.

Thus, insurance also encourages us to start thinking about important life issues such as building a house, buying a car and, above all, planning a family much earlier than the occurrence of circumstances that can sometimes take us by surprise.

Author:

Dr Renata Pajewska-Kwaśny, Department of Risk and Insurance, Institute of Risk and Financial Markets, Warsaw School of Economics