Managing the cost of services for people with disabilities: an international approach. Part I: Poland

Introduction The cost of care for people with disabilities is rising, whereas all forms of support for them are decreasing. Countries and communities develop different ways to serve the disabled. We examined the comprehensive state of care from the perspective of cost management of services for individuals with disabilities in Poland. Method This paper is based on a review of relevant international literature, with a special focus on the situation in Poland. A keyword search was completed in both Polish- and English-language databases. Results In Poland, people with disabilities usually live with their families, and specialized services are offered outside the place of residence. Community and privately-owned housing resembling family homes is being developed. However, for many families with disabled members, such an option is unaffordable. Discussion New policy programs are being developed to protect, care for, and support people with disabilities in Poland. However, some of these policies have not been implemented due to limited financial resources. Overall, the development of health care services offered in places where individuals with disabilities live improves their quality of life but also increases the costs of care.