Greek citizens dissatisfied with National Health System, survey finds

A recent public opinion survey has revealed that a significant majority of Greek citizens are dissatisfied with the country’s National Health System (ESY), highlighting deep-rooted issues that affect both patients and healthcare professionals.

The survey, conducted by the research firm GPO, found that 61% of participants expressed dissatisfaction with the ESY. The main reasons cited were staff shortages, inadequate hospital infrastructure, and a lack of medical equipment.

The study also revealed concerns among medical professionals. 57% of doctors surveyed rated the system negatively, pointing to low salaries, excessive workloads, and poor working conditions as factors diminishing the prestige and sustainability of the profession.

In a presentation of the findings, Athanasios Exadaktylos, President of the Panhellenic Medical Association, emphasized that personnel shortages remain the most critical challenge for the ESY. He noted that 227 recent hires were offset by 268 departures, including 146 due to retirement.

“Especially in recent months, we’ve seen a sharp increase in resignations among Level A and B specialist doctors,” Exadaktylos said, blaming worsening conditions and insufficient pay.

Dimitris Varnavas, Secretary General of the association, added that limited career advancement opportunities and low wages are prompting many doctors to leave the country.

“To reignite interest among young physicians, we’ve submitted detailed proposals including financial and institutional incentives,” Varnavas stated. “The government must understand that no health reform can succeed without consulting the profession’s collective bodies.”

The findings come amid ongoing debates about the future of Greece’s public healthcare system, as authorities grapple with the dual pressures of maintaining service quality and retaining qualified medical staff.