Safety & Health
How do I find a pharmacy or doctor?
Quick answer
Pharmacies ("apteka") are everywhere, some open 24 hours, and staff often speak some English. EU visitors should carry an EHIC or GHIC card; everyone else should have travel insurance, as private clinics are fast and affordable.
A pharmacy is called an "apteka" and there is one on most high streets, marked with a green cross. Some open 24 hours, and pharmacists can advise on minor problems and common medicines. Many speak some English, especially in cities.
Seeing a doctor
For non-urgent care, private clinics are quick and reasonably priced, and many have English-speaking staff. For an emergency, dial 112. Bring any prescription medicines you need in their original packaging, with a copy of the prescription for anything unusual.
Cover before you travel
EU and EEA visitors should carry a European Health Insurance Card (or the UK GHIC), which covers state medical care on the same terms as residents. Everyone else should take out travel insurance, since it covers private treatment and repatriation. Insurance is worth having even with an EHIC, because it covers things state care does not.
Sources
- European Health Insurance Card , European Commission
- Poland travel advice: health , UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
More on Safety & Health
Yes. Poland is one of the safer countries in Europe, with low violent crime. Normal city precautions against pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and stations are enough.
Read the full answerDial 112 for any emergency; operators speak English. You can also use 999 for an ambulance, 998 for fire and 997 for police.
Read the full answerFew, but watch for overpriced taxis, "private" currency exchangers, and inflated bills in unmarked tourist-strip bars. Stick to app-based taxis and marked kantors.
Read the full answer