For PEP (HIV post-exposure prophylaxis) in Poland, go to the nearest Szpital Zakaźny (infectious disease hospital) or the Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy (SOR) of a large hospital with an infectious disease unit. PEP is available through NFZ — free for Polish residents. Must start within 72 hours.
The 72-Hour Rule
PEP must begin within 72 hours of a potential HIV exposure. Every hour matters — starting within 24 hours is significantly more effective. Go now and let the doctor assess the risk. If in doubt, go.
Warsaw
Szpital Zakaźny — Wojewódzki Szpital Zakaźny w Warszawie Address: Wolska 37, Warsaw This is the primary infectious disease hospital in Warsaw and the most reliable PEP access point. Go to the SOR (Szpitalny Oddział Ratunkowy — emergency department) and say:
"Miałem ryzykowne zachowanie seksualne. Potrzebuję profilaktyki poekspozycyjnej — PEP — na HIV. Jestem w ciągu 72 godzin." (I had risky sexual behaviour. I need post-exposure prophylaxis — PEP — for HIV. I'm within 72 hours.)
The interaction may be clinical and cool — Poland's public health staff vary significantly in attitude. Focus on getting what you need medically. The legal framework requires them to provide it.
Kraków
Szpital Uniwersytecki w Krakowie — Klinika Chorób Zakaźnych Śniadeckich 5, Kraków Kraków's university hospital has an infectious disease department. For PEP emergencies, go to the SOR and request the dyżurny lekarz chorób zakaźnych (on-call infectious disease doctor).
Other Cities
Wrocław: Szpital Specjalistyczny im. A. Falkiewicza — infectious disease department (Warszawska 2)
Poznań: Szpital Miejski im. F. Raszei — SOR (Mickiewicza 2); or Szpital Kliniczny Przemienienia Pańskiego UM (Długa 1/2)
Gdańsk / Trójmiasto: Szpital Specjalistyczny im. Karola Marcinkowskiego — infectious disease
Łódź: Szpital im. Biegańskiego — Klinika Chorób Zakaźnych (Kniaziewicza 1/5)
For any city: go to the nearest duże szpital (large hospital) SOR and ask for the doctor on duty for chorób zakaźnych (infectious diseases) — they can either provide PEP or refer you to the right facility.
Cost
PEP via NFZ (national health fund) is free for Polish residents or significantly subsidised. If you don't have Polish health insurance or are a visitor, you'll be treated regardless but may receive a bill. EHIC covers EU citizens for emergency care. Non-EU visitors: travel insurance should cover this cost.
Attitude Management
Polish public hospital infectious disease departments vary significantly in attitude toward gay and bisexual men. Come prepared for a clinical interaction that may feel cold or judgmental. This is frustrating but do not let it stop you from going. Your priority is getting the medication within the 72-hour window. You are not obligated to explain your sexual orientation or relationship structure.
After PEP
Complete the 28-day course. Test for HIV at 6 weeks and 3 months post-exposure. If PEP reflects ongoing risk, transition to PrEP — see PrEP Access in Poland.