Studia Administracyjne

Life expectancy in EU is one of the highest in the world. In result the average length of life and participation of people at the age of 65 in the population is also one of the highest in the world. This fact entails consequences related to both health care and work force. The increase of the participation of older people in the population results in the growth of the demand for healthcare and related services. With the increase of the average length of life of work force and longer periods of employment, there will be higher demand for the need to improve qualifications or retraining as a well as more flexible conditions of employment. Despite generally high life expectancy, the differences between particular regions remain significant. Various reasons can be identified, ranging from varied levels of income, education and living conditions to unequal access to high quality health services. The above facts justify efficient actions aimed at leveling the differences, and EU aid funds seem to be the appropriate tool. Structural funds are available from Brussels at all levels including Operational and Regional Programs. The aim of the paper was to present various potential sources of financing and demonstrate good practice in respect of realization of key projects mainly on the basis of the example of the Lubuskie province. The research covered the institutions of the National Health Service, including the District Hospital in Zielona Góra. In conclusion it can be observed that despite significant financing from the EU budget and national sources, the level of dissatisfaction with the quality of health services provided remains high.