The market for surgical robotics is growing in Poland

Report by Upper Finance and PMR “Surgical Robotics Market in Poland 2019. Forecasts for 2020-2023”

According to a report published by Upper Finance and PMR, the United States has one da Vinci surgical robot per 100,000 inhabitants, Europe has one per 800,000 inhabitants, while Poland has one per a staggering 6.5 million inhabitants. The authors of the study suggest that the surgical robotics market in Poland has the potential to grow from the current value of 92 million PLN to around 500 million PLN in the next four years.

As indicated by the report, nearly 5,300 da Vinci devices have been installed worldwide, with over 6 million surgeries performed using this equipment. In 2019 alone, the number of procedures exceeded 1.25 million. The most dynamic growth between 2017 and 2019 was observed in general surgery. This particular area has experienced the most significant growth, from a negligible number of operations in 2008 to approximately 375,000 procedures by the end of 2018.

Other popular applications of robotic surgery include gynecology, as well as urology, which was the primary use of robotics globally and remains so in Poland. In mature markets, robots are increasingly used in thoracic surgery and head and neck surgery, known as Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS).

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We estimate that a country the size of Poland should have around 40-50 da Vinci robots. Taking into account the market's development, healthcare funding models, and macroeconomic conditions, by the end of 2023, we can expect a total of around 30 installations. This level of growth, combined with the assumption of a twofold increase in the efficiency of installed devices, would mean an increase in the value of the domestic market to nearly 500 million PLN. This value includes the sales of devices, tools, disposable materials, services, and, above all, the value of medical services provided.

Joanna Szyman, Vice President of Upper Finance Board

According to analysts at Upper Finance and PMR, the market’s growth would significantly accelerate with the introduction of a separate reimbursement program for procedures involving robotic systems by the National Health Fund. Despite the Ministry of Health’s announcement of a pilot program and subsequent national support program for robotic surgery, there have been no solutions for widespread reimbursement of robotic procedures as of yet.

In 2017, the Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariffing issued a positive opinion regarding the reimbursement of operations using medical robots for three indications: colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and endometrial cancer. As a result, the Ministry of Health prepared a draft regulation that would introduce these surgeries into the basket of guaranteed healthcare services. However, the project was put on hold.

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As the research shows, respondents strongly emphasize the barriers to the development of robotic systems in medicine in Poland. The most significant barrier limiting market growth is the lack of public funding at an appropriate level for procedures where da Vinci is utilized. In both private and public healthcare, the shortage of qualified medical personnel is a strong obstacle. In the case of purchasing a robot, the healthcare provider must also consider the costs associated with training doctors and preparing staff to operate such complex equipment. It's worth noting that this is also a lengthy process. The most important factor driving the market's development is the advantage of robotic methods over traditional surgery in terms of patients' quality of life.

Monika Stefańczyk
Pharma and Healthcare Market Analyst

Upper Finance Group is an independent Polish capital advisory, strategic, and operational consulting firm that has been operating in the Polish market since 2007. The company sets standards in the field of corporate finance, providing unique solutions for the most demanding clients, including those from the medical, hotel, and real estate industries. The team consists of 25 experts with unique experiences in financing and structuring investment projects, managing M&A processes, as well as building development strategies, operational efficiency, and value for companies.

www.upperfinance.pl

PMR is a team of experts in market research and analysis, supporting the development of global corporations and local businesses in Poland and Central and Eastern Europe for 20 years. We specialize in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, construction, trade and FMCG, as well as new technologies. Our work results in unique reports, proprietary forecasts, and market analysis. We carry out dedicated projects and organize cyclical business events for management staff. Thanks to the knowledge and years of experience of our analytical teams, our clients increase their market share, improve sales indicators, and successfully enter new markets.

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