Eurostat: Greece ranks last in Europe for access to healthcare
According to data from the European Statistical Office (Eurostat), Greece recorded the highest share of citizens unable to access necessary healthcare services in the European Union in 2024.
Figures released on Wednesday, August 20, show that 21.9% of Greeks aged 16 and over did not receive the medical examination or treatment they needed.
The main reasons cited were high costs, long waiting lists, and distance to healthcare facilities.
SIX TIMES THE EU AVERAGE
Across the EU, 3.6% of people reported unmet medical needs. In Greece, however, the figure was nearly six times higher. Finland ranked second with 12.4%, followed by Estonia with 11.2%. The lowest rates were recorded in Malta (0.5%) and Czechia (0.6%).
WIDENING GAP BETWEEN RICH AND POOR
The Eurostat report also highlighted significant inequalities based on income levels. EU-wide, 6% of those at risk of poverty reported being unable to access healthcare, compared with 3.2% among those not at risk.
In Greece, the divide was far sharper: 32% of citizens at risk of poverty were unable to obtain necessary healthcare services.
