Therapeutic Programs

We will help you free of charge, under contract with the National Health Fund [NFZ]

AMD Therapeutic Program

AMD, or age-related macular degeneration, is an age-related disease that occurs more frequently in individuals aged over 45. The disease affects the central retina (macula), which is the area responsible for sharp central vision. AMD can take two forms: “dry,” where retinal degeneration is not accompanied by swelling, and “wet,” where this swelling occurs.

The wet form, particularly dangerous for vision, requires treatment using anti-VEGF preparations in the form of eye injections. Anti-VEGF drugs block the formation of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which are the source of swelling. Wet AMD is an incurable disease, however, early treatment with anti-VEGF drugs can slow down disease progression.

At St. Raphael’s Hospital in Krakow, injections are performed with original anti-VERGF preparations from renowned companies, which are available free of charge under the National Health Fund [NFZ] coverage. These drugs include Eylea, Lucentis, and Beovu. Patients in advanced stages of the disease who do not meet NFZ’s qualification criteria for the therapeutic program are guaranteed access to free bevacizumab (Avastin) injections.

DME Therapeutic Program

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is a complication of diabetes. Both conditions share several risk factors, such as:

• duration of the disease – the longer a patient has diabetes, the higher the risk of macular edema
• sustained high blood sugar levels
• high blood pressure
• high levels of cholesterol
• smoking
• frequent alcohol consumption
• sedentary lifestyle
• obesity

The macula is responsible for central vision, including visual acuity and contrast vision. The initial symptoms of DME include deterioration of visual acuity, wavy vision, and bending of straight lines. Over time, macular edema leads to the loss of central vision, with a dark spot appearing in the centre of the visual field.

In diabetic patients, due to cell hypoxia, an excess of a specific factor called VEGF is produced, which damages the barrier between blood and the retina. Blood components leak into the retina, leading to the accumulation of fluid and subsequent swelling, which lifts the retina.

Untreated macular edema can ultimately lead to complete vision loss.

At St. Raphael’s Hospital in Krakow, treatment is provided for DME patients using injectable medications into the eye. These medications include both anti-VEGF drugs (Bevacizumab, aflibercept, ranibizumab) and steroid preparations (dexamethasone), which have proven effectiveness in reducing macular edema in diabetes. All treatments are fully covered and provided free of charge under the NFZ coverage.

Moreover, if a patient requires retinal laser therapy or surgical procedures (vitrectomy), the possibility of performing these procedures under the NFZ coverage is guaranteed.

Would you like to schedule an appointment or obtain more information?

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