Supreme Medical Chamber

The Supreme Medical Chamber (Naczelna Izba Lekarska, NIL) is the professional self-governing body for physicians and dentists in Poland, with a history dating back to 1921. The current act regulating its activities was enacted on December 2, 2009. The NIL oversees the proper practice of medical professions and represents the interests of its members. Today, the organization undertakes numerous initiatives, including establishing professional ethical standards, promoting continuous professional development, and representing doctors in matters related to health policy. Historically, the roots of medical self-government in Poland trace back to the 17th century, when the first organizations, such as the Collegium Medicorum Gedanensis in Gdańsk, were established to protect patients from unqualified practitioners. After World War I, in the newly independent Poland, medical chambers were created, though they were dismantled during the occupation period. They were reactivated after 1989, following political changes that restored the autonomy of the chambers. The NIL consists of the Supreme Chamber and 23 regional medical chambers, including the Military Medical Chamber. Its governing bodies include the National Congress of Physicians, as well as various courts and professional responsibility ombudsmen who ensure ethical conduct and compliance with regulations. Interestingly, meetings of the Supreme Medical Council and its bodies include both physicians and dentists, reflecting the collaboration between these two professional groups. The NIL also maintains medical registers, including the Central Register of Physicians, providing patients and other medical professionals with information about professional qualifications. On the international stage, the NIL collaborates with various organizations, such as the World Health Organization and the European Union of Medical Specialists, highlighting the importance of Polish medical self-government in the global healthcare context.