Polish hospitals are set to receive an annual retainer of 3.16 million PLN for the operation of birthing rooms, under a new regulation that came into effect on January 31. This fee covers the hospital's readiness to accept childbirths or to transport pregnant women to facilities with maternity wards. The fixed daily rate of 8,664 PLN allocated to hospitals is expected to cover the salaries of midwives and paramedics, as well as ensure round-the-clock availability of medical transport for pregnant women or newborns.

The implementation of this regulation mandates hospitals to establish a dedicated space known as the birthing room, which must be appropriately equipped and adapted for childbirth. This new requirement reflects an increase in the standards that hospitals must meet to provide adequate maternity care. Additionally, the provision entails that hospitals guarantee a thorough clinical assessment of pregnant and laboring women, which includes identifying risk factors and early signs of pregnancy complications, thereby ensuring continuous care throughout the labor process.

This initiative can be seen as an effort by the Polish government to enhance maternal health services and improve outcomes for mothers and newborns. By allocating specific funding and requiring hospitals to meet certain standards, the government aims to ensure that birthing facilities are safer and more accessible, which is especially important in regions where maternal health care has historically faced challenges. The financial backing for these birthing rooms could also help attract more qualified professionals to the obstetrics field, ultimately benefiting patient care.