Long queues, language barriers, an unfamiliar system — all of this makes visiting a doctor in Poland stressful, especially for those who have recently moved. Telemedicine solves most of these problems: a doctor online, no queues, in a language you understand. Let's break down how it works in Poland and when an online consultation is the best choice.
What is telemedicine and is it legal in Poland
Telemedicine is a medical consultation conducted remotely — via video call, phone or chat. In Poland, telemedicine is fully legal and has been developing rapidly since 2020.
The doctor conducting an online consultation holds a Polish medical licence and operates within the same legal framework as a doctor at an in-person appointment. After the consultation, they can issue the same documents: an e-recepta (electronic prescription), an e-skierowanie (electronic referral) or an L4 (sick leave certificate). Everything is official and valid within the NFZ system.
What can be handled online and what cannot
Telemedicine is suitable for most common situations, but it does not replace an in-person examination when physical diagnostics are needed.
Can be handled online:
- cold, upper respiratory infection, flu, cough, fever
- prescription renewal for chronic medications (blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid)
- sick leave certificate L4
- specialist referral (e-skierowanie)
- consultation based on test results
- questions about contraception, dermatology (based on photos)
- psychological and psychiatric support
Cannot be replaced by online:
- acute abdominal or chest pain, suspected appendicitis
- injuries, fractures, wounds
- initial specialist examination requiring physical diagnostics
- situations requiring emergency services — in these cases call 112
How an online consultation at e-zdrowie.com works
The process is straightforward and takes just a few minutes.
Step 1. Choose a service
The website offers: a doctor consultation, electronic prescription, sick leave L4, specialist referral. Choose what you need.
Step 2. Describe your symptoms
Fill in a short form: what's bothering you, how long it's been going on, what medications you're taking. The more precise the description — the faster and better the doctor's response.
Step 3. The doctor reviews your case and gets in touch
A licensed Polish doctor reviews your case and asks any necessary follow-up questions.
Step 4. You receive your documents
The prescription, referral or sick leave certificate is entered into the electronic system — you can view it in the mojeIKP app or receive a code by SMS. No need to go anywhere.
How much does an online consultation cost
Telemedicine prices in Poland are significantly lower than at private clinics:
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Online doctor consultation | from 99 zł |
| E-recepta (electronic prescription) | from 59 zł |
| L4 (sick leave certificate) | from 99 zł |
| E-skierowanie (specialist referral) | from 69 zł |
For comparison: a private doctor's appointment in Poland costs 100–300 zł, plus travel time and waiting.
Who benefits most from telemedicine
Those without NFZ
If you don't yet have insurance — an online consultation is available to everyone, without registering at a clinic or needing a PESEL in many cases.
Busy people
No need to take half a day off for a clinic visit. Consultations are available at any convenient time, from your phone or computer.
Those who need a prescription renewal
If you're already taking medication and need a new e-prescription — this is a classic telemedicine scenario. An in-person visit is unnecessary.
Those temporarily unfit for work
If you're feeling unwell and need a sick leave certificate L4 — there's no need to get out of bed and travel to a clinic.
Telemedicine and the NFZ: how they connect
An important point: an online consultation at e-zdrowie.com is a paid service and is not covered by the NFZ. However, the documents issued by the doctor after the consultation — prescription, referral, sick leave — are fully valid within the NFZ system.
This means you pay for the consultation itself, but afterwards you can see a specialist through the NFZ, collect medications at subsidised prices and so on.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can you get an L4 sick leave online in Poland?
Yes. A doctor can issue an electronic sick leave certificate (e-ZLA) following an online consultation. It is sent directly to the employer through the ZUS system — nothing needs to be printed or delivered. Get L4 sick leave online.
Is a PESEL required for an online consultation?
It depends on the service. For a prescription or sick leave certificate, a PESEL is usually required since the documents are entered into the state system. For a general consultation — not always.
How quickly does the doctor respond?
Usually within a few hours. For straightforward cases — sooner.
What languages are available at e-zdrowie.com?
Consultations at e-zdrowie.com are available in English, Russian, Ukrainian and Polish.
Is telemedicine safe?
Yes, as long as you consult a licensed doctor through an official platform. Doctors at e-zdrowie.com hold Polish medical licences and are professionally responsible for their recommendations.
Summary
Telemedicine in Poland is not a temporary fix — it is a fully valid medical tool. It is especially convenient for foreigners: less bureaucracy, no language barrier, no need to navigate the NFZ system from scratch. Get an online doctor consultation today — quickly, officially and in your own language.
