Is Our Health System on the Brink? Exploring Challenges and Solutions | eKathimerini.com

Greece is facing serious challenges in its public health system. A recent study in The Lancet highlights that the population is aging quickly, putting pressure on resources that are already stretched thin.

By 2050, over a third of Greeks will be aged 65 or older. Right now, 59% of people in this age group report having chronic illnesses, and this rises to a staggering 85.3% for those over 85. With many older adults dealing with multiple health issues, Greece ranks among the oldest populations in the OECD.

Experts warn that these trends are revealing deep-rooted problems within the health system. The authors of the study note that aging populations, a rise in chronic conditions, and limited resources are a growing concern globally. In Greece, the situation has worsened over the last 15 years, exposing structural weaknesses that test the system’s ability to respond effectively.

Key issues include underfunding and a lack of strong primary care. In 2022, Greece spent only 8.6% of its GDP on public health—about $3,000 per person. This is notably lower than the OECD average of $5,000. The national health organization, EOPYY, has not capitalized on its purchasing power to improve healthcare services, and many hospitals struggle with high demand partly due to inefficiencies in primary care.

The distribution of healthcare professionals is uneven, with Greece having a high number of cardiologists compared to its population, but far fewer oncologists and urologists. In 2023, the nation had nearly as many cardiologists as Germany, which has eight times the population, yet only 388 oncologists available to assist those in need.

Lifestyle choices also contribute to the strain. Approximately 25% of Greeks smoke, and 41% of children aged 5 to 9 are classified as overweight. Additionally, the influx of refugees has increased healthcare needs, as one in three refugee households contains individuals requiring medical attention.

Extreme weather events, including heatwaves and wildfires, further complicate the situation. These incidents exacerbate health risks, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable populations.

In summary, Greece’s health system is at a crossroads. With an aging population and rising chronic conditions, improvements in funding, care coordination, and resource allocation are crucial. Addressing these challenges head-on will not only improve health outcomes but also fortify the system for future generations.

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HEALTH, SOCIETY, IN DEPTH