Free kidney function σcreenings in Greece under "Prolamvano" program

Citizens belonging to high-risk health groups will soon have access to free kidney function tests under the Greek government’s nationwide preventive healthcare initiative, “Prolamvano”, funded by the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility.

This new measure marks a significant step in expanding public access to early diagnostic screenings for serious conditions, reinforcing the country’s focus on preventive medicine.

Who Will Benefit

According to Deputy Minister of Health Irini Agapidaki, the new initiative primarily targets individuals with an elevated risk of kidney disease.

“We are introducing targeted kidney function screenings for individuals who are at higher risk—such as those with diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, or dyslipidemia,” said Agapidaki. “These underlying conditions can cause early kidney damage if not diagnosed in time. Our goal is to expand the cardiovascular program to include screenings for renal health and obesity, and eventually more diseases, under the ‘Prolamvano’ umbrella.”

Eligible Groups for Free Testing:

Individuals with type 2 diabetes

Those with uncontrolled high blood pressure

People with dyslipidemia (elevated blood lipid levels)

Other high-risk populations prone to early kidney damage

The screenings aim to detect kidney issues before they progress into chronic conditions, helping reduce long-term health complications and healthcare costs.

How It Works

Eligible individuals will receive an SMS notification on their mobile phones, guiding them to book a free appointment for the tests. No referral or payment will be required.

The initiative is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen public health through early detection and accessible diagnostics, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need.