Poznań is once again hosting “Biała Sobota” (White Saturday), a well-established community health initiative that provides free medical consultations and examinations. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, 15 February 2025, at the Catholic Primary School of St. Stanislaus Kostka, located at ul. Głogowska 92. Organised by Caritas Archdiocese of Poznań and co-financed by the City of Poznań, the initiative aims to make healthcare more accessible, encourage preventive care, and raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis.
Free Medical Consultations and Examinations
From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, visitors will have access to consultations with specialists across multiple medical fields, including:
- Endocrinology – for thyroid and hormonal disorders
- Cardiology – assessing heart health and risk factors
- Pulmonology – for respiratory system evaluations
- Rheumatology – focusing on joint and autoimmune diseases
- Orthopaedics – dealing with bone and muscular issues
- Nephrology – evaluating kidney function
- Physiotherapy – providing rehabilitation advice
- Dietetics – offering personalised nutritional guidance
- Internal medicine – general medical consultations
- Midwifery – supporting women’s health needs
Alongside expert advice, visitors can undergo various medical tests, including:
- Blood tests for cholesterol, glucose, and triglyceride levels
- Abdominal and breast ultrasounds
- Electrocardiograms (ECG) for heart function analysis
- Blood pressure measurements
- Body composition analysis, with students from local medical universities offering guidance on maintaining a balanced diet
Residents who wish to check their cholesterol or triglyceride levels are advised to arrive fasting to ensure accurate test results.
Specialist Mobile Medical Units
One of the highlights of this year’s “Biała Sobota” is the inclusion of specialist mobile diagnostic units, provided by the City of Poznań. These units will be available from 9:00 AM in the school’s parking lot and include:
- Osteobus – offering bone density testing to assess osteoporosis risk.
- Rentgenobus – conducting chest X-rays to evaluate lung health.
- Blood Glucose and Pressure Screening – provided by the Poznań Centre for Specialist Medical Services, with guidance on managing blood sugar levels and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
These services enhance the accessibility of medical care and encourage preventive health screenings among Poznań residents. For many residents, this event is a chance to undergo essential health screenings without financial or logistical barriers.
Not everyone has the time or resources to visit specialists regularly. White Saturday gives people an opportunity to take care of their health in one place and free of charge.
Says a spokesperson from Caritas Poznań.
Community Support and Health Education
Beyond medical tests and consultations, “Biała Sobota” serves as a hub for health awareness and community engagement. Several organisations will be present to provide education, support, and health resources, including:
- Drużyna Szpiku (Bone Marrow Team) – educating visitors on the importance of bone marrow donation and how to become a donor.
- Amazonki Association – providing information about breast cancer prevention and self-examination techniques.
- Melanoma Patient Association – offering mole screenings using a videodermatoscope to detect early signs of skin cancer.
- Zepter Medical – inviting attendees to try out therapeutic massages.
- Audika & Family Optic – conducting hearing and vision tests.
Representatives from the National Health Fund (NFZ) Greater Poland branch will also be available to offer guidance on accessing preventive healthcare programmes, applying for financial support for rehabilitation equipment, and registering for a sanatorium stay.
Additionally, specialists from Sanepid (Sanitary and Epidemiological Station) will offer carbon monoxide level testing for smokers, and representatives from Toruń Dressing Materials Plant will provide advice on managing urinary incontinence.
A Well-Established Tradition in Poznań
“Biała Sobota” has become a recognised and valued event in Poznań, allowing residents to access high-quality medical care without financial barriers. Each year, venues across the city temporarily transform into medical consultation hubs, helping thousands of people prioritise their health.
The initiative is particularly beneficial for individuals with demanding schedules, who often postpone check-ups due to work or other responsibilities.
White Saturday makes it easy for people to see multiple specialists in one day. We also aim to educate residents about disease prevention and encourage them to take proactive steps toward their well-being.
Explains a volunteer medical coordinator.
The event also fosters community spirit, bringing together healthcare professionals, volunteers, and local organisations to support Poznań residents in leading healthier lives.
Practical Information
- Date and Time: Saturday, 15 February 2025. Main consultations take place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with some services starting at 9:00 AM.
- Location: Catholic Primary School of St. Stanislaus Kostka, ul. Głogowska 92, 60-262 Poznań.
- Organisers: Caritas Archdiocese of Poznań, co-financed by the City of Poznań.
- Entry Requirements: Free and open to all adults and minors under parental supervision.
- Important Note: Residents planning to check their cholesterol or triglyceride levels should arrive fasting for accurate test results.
Encouraging Participation and Community Well-being
The return of “Biała Sobota” highlights Poznań’s commitment to public health and preventive care. By offering a wide range of medical services, expert consultations, and educational resources free of charge, the event contributes significantly to improving the well-being of the city’s residents.
Poznań citizens are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity, prioritise their health, and gain valuable knowledge on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether for a routine check-up, specialist advice, or educational support, “Biała Sobota” is a step towards a healthier and more informed community.
