Religious affiliation and perceptions of healthcare access during and after COVID-19 in Poland

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Introduction: In response to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare systems and social life worldwide, this study examines the role of religion in shaping perceptions of healthcare access in Poland during and after the pandemic. Methods: The research is based on anonymous surveys conducted among adult Poles during the third wave of the pandemic and in the post-pandemic period, with participants divided by the timing of their responses. The research employed a cross-sectional survey design with a validated questionnaire. Data collection occurred during the third wave of the pandemic and the post-pandemic period. The questionnaire incorporated demographic questions and assessed the significance of religion in respondents' lives using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for healthcare accessibility. Results: = 541) were recruited through online and paper-based surveys, meeting the inclusion criteria of being aged 18 or older and residing in Poland. Findings indicate that Roman Catholic respondents rated healthcare accessibility higher than non-religious individuals, potentially due to social and community support. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in actual healthcare access among groups, suggesting systemic factors played a larger role. Discussion: These results highlight religion as a source of emotional support rather than a determinant of healthcare access.