Starting January 3, 2025, a significant change is coming to dental benefits covered by the National Health Fund (NFZ). Known as “600 Plus for a Dentist,” this initiative allows anyone who pays health insurance contributions to benefit from improved dental care options. But how does it work, and what does it mean for patients?

Enhanced Dental Benefits Under NFZ

As of January 3, 2025, the basket of dental benefits financed by the NFZ has been expanded, offering more comprehensive care for insured individuals. These changes aim to address long-standing challenges with NFZ dental treatment, including long wait times, limited access to modern procedures, and concerns about the quality of care.

One of the most notable additions to the benefits package is the inclusion of pantomographic X-rays (panoramic X-rays) for adult patients undergoing endodontic or prosthetic treatment. This service will now be available once every five years and includes the X-ray, its professional description, and entry into the patient’s medical records. To access this benefit, patients need a referral from a qualified dentist who must justify the necessity of the test.

Pantomographic X-rays for Children and Adolescents

For younger patients aged 5 to 18, the rules for accessing pantomographic imaging remain unchanged. They can receive this service once every three years in medically justified cases. Scenarios where this imaging is applicable include:

• Suspected developmental abnormalities of teeth
• Lesions within the jaw bones
• Occurrence of periodontitis
• Diagnostics of odontogenic and non-odontogenic infections

How Much Can You Save with “600 Plus for a Dentist”?

The initiative derives its name from the estimated savings insured individuals can achieve by utilizing NFZ-covered dental services. For example:

• Oral cavity inspections: Up to three times a year (80-100 PLN per visit)
• Scaling (tartar removal): Once a year (150-250 PLN)
• Pantomographic X-rays: Once every five years (80-200 PLN)

By leveraging these benefits, the average insured person could save approximately 610 PLN annually, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses for essential dental care.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the expansion of benefits is a positive step, challenges remain. Many Poles continue to opt for private dental services, citing long waiting periods and limited access to advanced treatments under the NFZ. This trend highlights the ongoing debate about improving public dental care, including calls for school-based dental services and concerns about patients prioritizing extractions over treatments to save costs.

The Path Forward

With the “600 Plus for a Dentist” program, the government aims to encourage more people to use their health insurance contributions effectively. By expanding access to critical diagnostics and preventive care, the NFZ hopes to address some of the public’s reservations and promote better oral health nationwide.

For insured individuals, the message is clear: 2025 brings new opportunities to take advantage of dental benefits under the NFZ. From routine check-ups to advanced imaging, these changes could make a significant difference in both oral health and household budgets.