President refers controversial patient-rights bill to Tribunal
President Karol Nawrocki sent the anti-quack law to the Constitutional Tribunal for review, pausing new powers aimed at curbing pseudomedical practices.
President Karol Nawrocki has referred a controversial bill known in public debate as the anti-quack law to the Constitutional Tribunal for pre-emptive review. Consequently the bill will not enter into force while judges examine its constitutionality.
What is the anti-quack law?
The text aimed to strengthen the Patient Rights Ombudsman. Moreover it sought faster interventions against people offering dangerous pseudo-medical treatments. In addition the law would allow public warnings against promoters of unproven therapies. Therefore lawmakers argued it would protect patients from harm and deception.
What the bill would change
The proposal would expand the Rzecznik Praw Pacjenta’s powers, or Patient Rights Ombudsman in English. Consequently the office could issue come-and-stop orders before concluding full proceedings. Moreover it would create a public register of entities spreading medical disinformation for profit. However critics warned about overreach. In particular they feared herbalists and complementary therapists could fall under a broad definition. Therefore the President asked judges to check whether the bill respects constitutionally protected freedoms.
Why the President paused the bill
Karol Nawrocki stressed he supports the bill’s goal. However he objected to some of its tools. Moreover his office flagged unclear limits on the Ombudsman’s reach. Consequently he worries that the state could restrict lawful small businesses. In addition the President proposed his own plan. He wants tougher criminal penalties for the most dangerous pseudo-medical practices. Therefore he intends to link severe cases to prosecution under the Penal Code.
Reactions from ministries and practice
The Ministry of Health defended the bill. Moreover the ministry said doctors, experts and patient groups helped draft it. However the ministry warned that pausing the law leaves current legal tools unchanged. Consequently officials fear slower responses to people who offer unproven treatments to the seriously ill. Meanwhile the Patient Rights Ombudsman expressed disappointment with the referral to the Tribunal.
What it means for patients and expats
For now the legal change will not affect how providers operate. However you should still verify anyone offering medical treatment. Moreover public healthcare in Poland involves the National Health Fund, or NFZ. In addition private clinics operate widely, and many expats use them. Therefore check credentials before treatment, and ask to see a licence or registration.
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