Krakow Doctor Joins New York Valves Experts

31 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Dr. Andrzej Gackowski from Kraków spoke at the New York Valves congress, highlighting Polish cardiac expertise and global collaboration.

Dr. Andrzej Gackowski of Kraków joined leading clinicians at the New York Valves congress. He represented Jagiellonian University Medical College in New York. Moreover, his presence signals Poland’s growing role in heart valve care.

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About Dr. Gackowski and his work

Dr. hab. n. med. Andrzej Gackowski holds a professorship at Jagiellonian University. In addition, he leads clinical and research teams in Kraków. He focuses on transcatheter therapies for valve disease. Consequently, his research informs real-world practice. He treats complex patients using catheter-based techniques. Therefore, clinicians follow his findings closely.

New York Valves congress: why it matters

The New York Valves congress ranks among the top global meetings on valve therapy. Moreover, experts gather to share data and techniques. They discuss TAVI, TMVR, and other transcatheter procedures. In addition, the conference sets practice trends worldwide. Consequently, attendance amplifies a clinician’s influence. Therefore, Dr. Gackowski’s involvement benefits patients in Poland and beyond.

What this means for patients and systems

Poland has modern cardiac centres in Kraków and other cities. However, the national system differs from many foreign systems. For example, the NFZ (National Health Fund) funds most public procedures. In addition, ZUS handles social insurance and benefits in Poland. Expats use a PESEL number for many registrations, though it is not mandatory for short stays. Consequently, access rules affect whether patients receive NFZ-funded valve procedures.

Private clinics also provide advanced valve interventions. Moreover, they often speed appointments for non-public patients. However, private care usually costs more than NFZ-covered treatment. Therefore, international patients often weigh costs, wait times, and travel. In addition, cross-border referrals and collaborations are becoming common.

Why expats should care

Advanced valve care reduces operative risk for older patients. Moreover, catheter treatments shorten hospital stays and speed recovery. Therefore, patients can resume work and travel sooner. Expats should know care pathways and coverage options. For example, EU nationals may use reciprocal health arrangements. In addition, non-EU residents should check private insurance terms. Consequently, planning saves time and money.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you need cardiac care in Poland, check whether the NFZ covers your treatment. NFZ stands for the National Health Fund and covers many public procedures. Also confirm social benefits with ZUS (the Social Insurance Institution) if you live and work here. Finally, bring identity documentation; a PESEL number helps with hospital registration but is not always required for short visits.

Dr. Gackowski’s participation reflects both individual excellence and institutional ties. Moreover, it highlights Jagiellonian University’s role in global cardiology. Therefore, patients and clinicians in Poland will likely benefit from shared knowledge. In addition, expats seeking high-end cardiac care should consider Kraków’s centres.

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