Jolanta Sobierańska-Grenda, the head of the Polish Ministry of Health, indicated in an interview that implementing the salary increase law in the first half of the year would cost around 4.5 billion PLN. This financial burden has led some local authorities and hospital directors to suggest postponing the scheduled pay raises and altering the rules regarding salary adjustments. Decisions on this matter are expected to be discussed during the upcoming meeting of the Tripartite Health Care Team scheduled for February 18, which is crucial for determining the future of medical pay in the country.

Tensions are mounting within the medical community, with some members opposing any delay in the implementation of the pay raise law. Critics argue that such a postponement would not resolve the issue of high salaries for certain medical professionals, while potentially allowing the government to cut expenses for those in lower-paying positions. The Health Minister elaborated that the high earnings of some medical workers are often linked to the system of billing for medical procedures. To address the financial challenges, the Ministry has already begun actions to lower the valuation of certain medical services and is considering further reforms.

The ongoing debate reflects broader concerns about healthcare funding and compensation for medical staff in Poland, as the government grapples with balancing budgetary constraints while ensuring fair remuneration for healthcare workers. The outcomes of the upcoming discussions are likely to have significant implications for the healthcare system and the welfare of medical professionals across the nation.