Background: In England and Poland there are completely different models of healthcare, which translates into the type and amount of the support received. The aim of the present article is to show the differences in healthcare systems and to compare the financial situation and access to medical services financed from public funds for people after spinal cord injuries in Poland and in England.
Main part: In England, a special commission assesses whether a patient needs a full package of continuous health care or assistance in the form of social care, including the provision of round-the-clock carers if necessary. In Poland, the National Health Fund provides medical assistance for the following household benefits: district nurses, long-term nursing care and rehabilitation. Only the families in a difficult situation are eligible for provision of carers. In England, occupational therapy is a highly developed field, while in Poland it is limited only to occupational therapy workshops.
Conclusion: It is advisable to conduct further financial analyses in order to assess the accurate scale of the problem and take action to improve the life situation of people after spinal cord injury. The English system ensures a higher standard of living for this group of people with disabilities.
Care of patients after spinal cord injury in the Polish and English public health system
Published in 22 (2) Keywords: medical service, national health service, personal assistant, primary care, spinal cord injury
