Most prescription medicines in Poland are issued electronically as an e-Prescription (e-Recepta).
You can obtain a prescription through a public NFZ clinic or a private doctor. The prescription is then sent electronically by SMS, email or to your Internet Patient Account (IKP).
👨⚕️ Who Can Issue a Prescription
A prescription can be issued by:
- Family doctor (POZ)
- Medical specialist
- Private doctor
- Telemedicine doctor
- Hospital doctor
🔢 Step-by-step Guide
- Book an appointment with a doctor
- Attend the consultation in person or online
- The doctor evaluates your condition
- If necessary, the doctor issues an e-Prescription
- Receive the prescription code by SMS, email or in the mojeIKP app
- Visit any pharmacy to collect your medication
📑 Required Documents
You will usually need:
- Passport
- PESEL number
- Previous medical records
For repeat prescriptions, the doctor may also ask for information about your previous treatment.
📱 What Is an e-Prescription
An e-Recepta is a digital prescription stored in the national healthcare system.
You can receive it:
- By SMS
- By email
- In the mojeIKP app
- As a printed information sheet from your doctor
💊 How to Buy Your Medicine
At the pharmacy, simply provide:
- Your PESEL number
- The 4-digit prescription code
If you use the mObywatel or mojeIKP app, you can also show the QR code instead.
🌐 Can Foreigners Get a Prescription
Yes. Foreigners can receive a prescription after a consultation with a doctor in Poland.
Private clinics can also issue prescriptions to patients who do not have NFZ insurance.
💻 Can You Get a Prescription Online?
Yes. Many clinics offer telemedicine consultations. After an online or telephone consultation, the doctor may issue an e-Prescription if medically appropriate. The prescription is sent electronically immediately after the consultation.
⏳ How Long Is a Prescription Valid?
The validity depends on the type of medication:
| Medication | Validity |
|---|---|
| Standard medicines | 30 days |
| Antibiotics | 7 days |
| Immunological medicines | 120 days |