Was a job offered to you in Poland? Feel free! You just need to sign some forms now and... make your appointment with a doctor. What do you know about health tests in Poland before employment??

The Referral

Polish employers are required by law to carry out a medical evaluation for their new employees before starting an employment contract. The purpose of such an evaluation is to prevent injuries in relation to the workplace and to ensure that the successful candidate is fit to fulfill his obligations, that is, that he or she does nothing to make him or her a health risk at work. That's why, once you have accepted the employment offer, you should be referred by your future company.

What can you expect in the office of the doctor?

The Physician

Assessments for occupational health can differ substantially based on your business, profession or even your employment. For example, office employees spend most of their time on computer screens. That is why an ophthalmologist is recommended to for an eye examination. An ophthalmologist will provide you with a prescription for glasses which can be partially refunded by your employer if you have a visual defect. Some professions (i.e. teachers) may require an ENT test to evaluate potential hearing or voice abnormalities. A spirometry test is most commonly performed to prevent respiratory disturbances and decrease the risk of occupational respiratory disease for people in contact with air irritants at work (dust, fumes, substances, etc..).

An overall health assessment, which normally includes a blood pressure test and a brief health survey, is necessary for all employees who will be soon to attend - you can expect your doctor to ask you questions about your medical history, prescription medications, or other long-term medical conditions. Depending on the type of work you will be doing, the check-up may also involve a range of other examinations e.g. a blood test, heart screening, or mental health assessment. However, there is no need to worry if you are not sure how to prepare for your appointment - all the necessary details will be provided to you in advance by the employer.

If you can safely carry out your duties, you will receive a certificate of fitness for work at the end of your appointment. Remember to submit the document to your employer afterward.

Medical checkups periodically

The pre-employment or preliminary health evaluation is not the only one that might be expected during your career in Poland. Any person working under a contract of employment is obliged, even if they don't change employment and employers, to undergo routine health tests. The frequency of these inspections relies mainly on the occupation and the advice of the doctor.