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Although the health status of Poland's population has clearly improved in the last decade, it is still less favourable than in most European countries. The average life expectancy and the average healthy life expectancy in Poland remain considerably shorter than in other EU members. Apart from this, the socio-economic transition in Poland, and accompanying unemployment and social exclusion, are increasing the already considerable income disparities that determine individuals' health investments. This has significantly differentiated the population's health status, both between regions and within particular social groups. The results of the microeconometric research into health status determinants and socio-economic health inequalities, as presented in this article, serve to verify the hypothesis that there is a relationship between the health status of individuals and their socio-economic status. If true, this hypothesis may point to a lack of health security felt by the poorer members of society. The main tool for evaluating the investigated relationship was an econometric model estimated using individual data. Health inequality is understood as an uneven distribution of health status caused by socio-economic status, and is measured by the health inequality index. The research methodology employed in this study is consistent with that used in other countries. The research has demonstrated that health status and socio-economic status in Poland are interrelated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]