Free obesity medication program launched with strict conditions

Eligible participants receive electronic referrals valid for one month to visit contracted public health facilities, where they will receive nutritional counseling and free prescriptions for high-cost obesity drugs. The program targets adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or 37–39 accompanied by conditions such as Type 2 diabetes or hypertension.

Deputy Health Minister Irini Agapidaki said participation is conditional on compliance. “We are not simply distributing medication. Those who do not follow the diet and exercise plan prescribed by specialists will be excluded from the program,” she said.

According to Kathimerini, the initiative is part of the National Cardiovascular Risk Prevention Program and is funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund. Around 13,000 messages were sent earlier this week, with the remaining notifications due on Dec. 28–29. The program includes ongoing medical monitoring aimed at gradual weight loss and long-term weight management.