Private Bariatric Surgery in Poland: Insights into Procedures, Distribution, and Standards of Care.

Abstract

Introduction: Bariatric surgery is critical for management of pathological obesity. In Poland, there is a paucity of data regarding bariatric care in the private sector.

Aim: This study evaluates the characteristics of private bariatric centres in terms of performed procedure types, regional distribution, and the level of care in comparison to public facilities.

Materials and methods: An online survey was distributed to bariatric centres in Poland. Collected data included numbers and types of bariatric procedures performed in 2023 and centre characteristics. Responses were analysed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests, with significance set at p <0.05.

Results: 7 of 54 surveyed centres were private and performed 872 bariatric surgeries (9.1% of the total procedures in Poland). The most common type of surgery was laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in both sectors (70.1% in private, 83.1% in public). Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) was exclusive to private centres. Significant regional disparities were noted. The level of care was comparable with public hospitals. Private centres offered significantly shorter wait times (median 1.5 months vs. 4 months in public).

Discussion: Private centers demonstrated comparable care standards to public facilities, with certified surgeons, multidisciplinary teams, and postoperative support. Factors such as cost and regional disparities can limit the access to private healthcare.

Conclusions: One in ten bariatric procedures in Poland are performed in private centers. These centers offer similar procedure types and quality standards as public hospitals while providing shorter wait times and procedures unavailable in the nationalized healthcare system, such as ESG.