Raszeja Hospital Poznań has reopened its surgical ward after a top-to-bottom renovation — blending cutting-edge medical care with over a century of tradition. With a deep historical legacy and modern innovation under one roof, this transformation marks a new chapter for one of the city’s most important healthcare institutions. Discover how the hospital continues to serve patients in Poznań.
A Century of Service, A Future of Innovation
The surgical ward at Raszeja Hospital Poznań has reopened its doors after a comprehensive renovation that has revitalized its infrastructure and redefined its capabilities. More than 15 million złoty from the City of Poznań went into modernizing this critical department, which remained operational throughout the construction process — a rare feat in such undertakings.
This hospital has provided outstanding care to Poznań’s residents for more than 70 years. Now, Raszeja Hospital Poznań offers patients and medical professionals an environment that matches their commitment to excellence.
said Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak.
The upgraded General and Minimally Invasive Surgery Ward now features expanded space, high-end medical equipment, enhanced comfort, and accessibility for all patients, including those with disabilities. Every detail was carefully planned: from providing access to beds from three sides to adding an isolation room and completely revamping all internal systems — plumbing, electrics, medical gas lines, and ventilation.
Raszeja Hospital Poznań: Where History Walks the Halls
The story of Raszeja Hospital Poznań is inseparable from the history of the city itself. The building was constructed between 1909–1911 as a reserve military hospital, designed by Berlin architect Hermann Röhde. It has served various roles over the decades — a war hospital, a post-war insurance office, a training school during WWII, and later a specialized infectious diseases hospital.
In 1953, the building became the permanent home of the Municipal Hospital No. 2, consolidated from facilities scattered across Poznań. It was named after the revered physician Franciszek Raszeja that same year. One of the most dramatic moments in its history came during the Poznań Uprising of June 1956, when the hospital provided emergency treatment to injured protesters, sometimes placing them on the floor due to overcrowding. A plaque on the hospital’s façade honors the courage of the staff during that time.
An Exceptional Surgical Department in a Renewed Space
Today, Raszeja Hospital Poznań is a national leader in surgical care, particularly in the field of oncology. The surgical team handles complex operations on the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and both small and large intestines — many of which are now performed laparoscopically. In fact, nearly 90% of such procedures are now minimally invasive, greatly benefiting patient recovery times.
In 2023 alone, the department conducted nearly 3,500 surgical procedures, including 768 cancer surgeries. By 2024, those numbers grew to almost 3,900 surgeries, with 844 involving oncological cases.
We’re seeing not only physical transformation but also a transformation of our team. The new conditions allow us to focus on even more complex, high-precision operations. Our patients benefit immensely.
said Dr. Sebastian Sowier, head of the surgical department.
Healing in a Historic Environment
Renovating a heritage building was no small feat. As a listed monument (entry no. 310 since May 8, 1987), the structure required careful coordination with conservation authorities. Yet despite the challenges, the outcome is stunning: preserved historical elements coexist with state-of-the-art surgical facilities.
The renovation was exceptionally difficult. But it was worth every effort. Raszeja Hospital Poznań has always been a place where people turn in times of crisis — and we’re proud to keep that mission alive in a modern form.
noted hospital director Elżbieta Wrzesińska-Żak.
Accredited, Trusted, and Human-Centered
In March 2024, Raszeja Hospital Poznań earned accreditation from the Polish Ministry of Health, confirming its adherence to the highest national standards in medical treatment. Its reputation extends far beyond Poznań — it’s one of the most respected surgical centers in Poland.
But technical excellence isn’t everything. The hospital is also a pioneer in patient-centered programs. The “Senior Maluszka Tuli” initiative, where seniors volunteer to cuddle newborns, has garnered national attention. Equally innovative is the “Green Healing” program, which brings therapeutic activities like gardening workshops, yoga, and forest therapy into the hospital experience — in partnership with the Municipal Greenery Board.
A Future Built on Compassion and Precision
With its newly renovated surgical ward, Raszeja Hospital Poznań reinforces its dual identity: a monument of Poznań’s history and a flagship of Poland’s medical future. Its blend of tradition and innovation offers a powerful model for what public healthcare can — and should — be.
This hospital is, above all, a place of hope. With every patient we help, we reaffirm our belief that healing is not only a science but a calling.
said Director Wrzesińska-Żak.
