Introduction and objective:
The healthcare system in Poland is experiencing dynamic staffing changes. Understanding the structure of medical personnel, particularly doctors, is crucial for conducting long-term health policy. The aim of this review is to demonstrate the quantitative and structural changes within the population of doctors in Poland over recent decades, and to identify the most important staffing trends, such as the feminization of the profession, generational shifts, and regional inequalities.

Review methods:
A review of statistical data was conducted published by, among others, Statistics Poland, the Ministry of Health, and the Supreme Medical Chamber, as well as international institutions (including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development – OECD). Historical data from 1930–2025 were included. The results are presented broken down into selected thematic areas.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
An increase in the number of doctors has been observed. The indicator of the number of doctors per capita is also growing, but it still remains lower than in most European Union countries. The proportion of women in the profession exceeds 59%, confirming the ongoing feminization process. The age structure has rejuvenated, but the proportion of doctors of retirement age remains significant. The staff is unevenly distributed geographically, with a predominance in large urban centres.

Summary:
The data confirm the need to conduct staffing policies based on current statistics, taking into account regional disproportions and demographic changes. Actions increasing the attractiveness of the profession and effective planning of staff distribution are necessary.