The aim of this paper is a systematic description and classification of the deliberative poll (DP) as a potentially innovative method of participation in health policy. The paper discusses the theory of deliberative democracy and a specific method of deliberative polling, as well as examples of its application, along with critical commentary. It summarises the characteristics of DP: advantages and disadvantages, as well as conditions for proper application. In this context an important distinction is made between two ideal types of participation: co-decision and consultation. A key feature of the latter is its advisory, and not decisive, character. DP is considered an example of such non-decisive, consultative participation.