In its healing activities, the Health Resort primarily uses the properties of the beneficial microclimate of underground salt chambers. 

The bioclimate of the treatment chambers is characterised by an exceptional bacteriological purity of the air, the absence of allergens and pollutants, a constant low temperature (13–14.5°C), high relative humidity (60–80%) and a high level of ionisation, in particular with chlorine and sodium ions, but also with magnesium and calcium ions. Additionally, the Health Resort is the only facility in Poland where treatment and rehabilitation of respiratory system is complemented with treatments based on natural brine from the local salt deposit, located at a depth of 255 m.  

Currently, subterraneotherapy, apart from using the natural therapeutic resource of the underground salt chamber microclimate, is also based on active rehabilitation of the respiratory system under the supervision of a team of doctors and medical rehabilitation specialists. The main tools used in respiratory rehabilitation are breathing exercises, based on the teaching of proper breathing and exercises of respiratory muscles and diaphragm.  Pro-health education is also important in order to achieve the intended rehabilitation goals.

The second figure important for the health resort of Wieliczka, was Dr Mieczysław Skulimowski. As a mine physician, he initiated treatment using the beneficial properties of the salt climate of the underground. In this way, he laid the foundations for a new method of treatment of respiratory diseases – subterraneotherapy. It was Dr Mieczysław Skulimowski who contributed to the establishment of the first underground sanatorium in Poland (the second in the world) in 1958.

Since 2011, by decision of the Minister of Health, the “Wieliczka” Salt Mine Health Resort is the only underground health resort in Poland. In addition to therapeutic programmes, it also offers recreational programmes, thus becoming a part of the spa tourism trend.