Poland's accession to the European Union entails the need to formulate our strategic goals also in occupational medicine. The most important trends, as well as the changes in world economy are presented with special reference to their impact on occupational medicine. The changing goals of occupational medicine and occupational hygiene in the Polish economy during the period of transition are discussed. The research priorities and the EU policy in these areas are highlighed. The intention of this paper is to initiate a general discussion in "Medycyna Pracy" on the future of occupational health service and occupational hygiene in Poland.