The Health Ministry has introduced a long-awaited change - as of May 5, HIV testing is a guaranteed benefit in primary care. This means that primary care physicians can order these tests for patients under the "My Health - Adult Health Balance" program.
Experts say this is an extremely important step toward reducing the number of HIV infections in Poland, where the number of new cases is growing at an alarming rate. Last year, more than 2,000 new infections were detected, which translates into 5-6 new cases per day. Meanwhile, in Europe, the number of infections has been steadily declining since 2010, while in Poland it has been rising, with 583 cases diagnosed in 2010 and as many as 2013 by 2024.
The problem of low awareness
Experts point out that as many as 17 percent of people living with HIV in Poland are unaware of their infection, leading to a lack of treatment and the possibility of infecting others. It is early diagnosis that can significantly improve the situation - earlier detection of the infection means effective treatment and the ability to function normally on a daily basis.
High efficiency of research
HIV tests, especially those of the fourth generation, have high sensitivity (99.4-100%) and specificity (98.3-99.94%). Screening tests not only help identify the infected, but also reduce the cost of subsequent treatment, so their introduction in PCPs is an important step toward effective prevention.
Easier access to diagnostics
"The fact that GPs in Poland will finally be able to refer their patients for HIV testing is a breakthrough! Although Consultation and Diagnostic Centers have been testing anonymously and free of charge for HIV for years, the availability of tests at the family doctor's office will certainly increase the percentage of Poles who opt for such a test," stressed Slawomir Roś, coordinator of the Positively Open program on behalf of Gilead Sciences Poland.
The need to change the approach
The percentage of people testing for HIV in Poland has remained low for years, at around 10% of the adult population. Facilitating access to testing at the POZ is an opportunity to change this situation, but experts also call for educational campaigns and greater public awareness of HIV prevention.
