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Over the course of three days (September 2–4, 2025), more than 500 debates, plenary sessions, and author meetings took place.

The Economic Forum in Karpacz brought together political and business leaders, as well as experts from across Europe and beyond. Together, they discussed the most pressing economic, healthcare, and social challenges.

Health and the Healthcare System on the Forum Agenda

Each year, the Health Protection Forum is an integral part of the Karpacz event, featuring discussions on the healthcare system, diseases, legislative changes, and patient well-being. This year’s conversations focused on how emerging technologies – especially artificial intelligence – can support patient care. Professor Maciej Banach, a renowned cardiologist, noted:

“New technologies can aid early diagnosis and optimize treatment. For instance, coronary artery CT scans can be additionally assessed by AI algorithms, enabling early detection of atherosclerosis. This allows us to offer patients the most effective treatment.”

On the first day, discussions centered around prevention, health education, and drug programs. Experts unanimously emphasized that the patient must always remain at the heart of all actions, with a holistic approach to care.

Health Education and HPV Vaccination

A new school subject – health education – was introduced in September 2025. Forum participants stressed the importance of teaching students what a healthy lifestyle entails. The goal is to help children consciously care for their health from an early age.

Rare diseases also took center stage. Experts at the roundtable agreed that a dedicated law should be enacted to better support patients and streamline efforts in this area. They highlighted the need to consider rare diseases across all age groups, noting that soon over 50% of those affected will be adults.

Genetic testing was recognized as invaluable in diagnostics. Professor Jan Lubiński remarked:

“Element concentrations we can measure are strong prognostic markers of survival in men and women with malignant tumors.”

Deputy Health Minister Wojciech Konieczny confirmed in a conversation with the Institute for Social Policy Development that HPV vaccinations will become mandatory:

“We want HPV vaccinations to be compulsory. We’re working to make them more widespread and accessible. We need insight into how effectively these vaccinations are being implemented.”

Reflections from the Economic Forum

“I’m leaving Karpacz convinced that there’s growing readiness for bolder changes in the healthcare system than ever before. More and more people are saying that reforms must go beyond simply tweaking the current framework. That’s a promising sign,” summarized Jakub Szulc, Vice President of the National Health Fund, in a conversation with the Institute for Social Policy Development.