High-cost medicines now available free at local pharmacies

Starting today, Monday, February 16, patients in Greece can collect High-Cost Medicines (FYK) free of charge from their local private pharmacies, marking a major expansion in access to treatment.

The new system adds a third distribution option alongside pharmacies operated by ΕΟPΥΥ and home delivery services. Around 10,500 of the country’s 10,850 pharmacies are participating, aiming to eliminate long waiting times that have burdened patients for years.

In the first phase, the scheme covers treatments for cancer and multiple sclerosis. Biological anti-TNF therapies will follow next month, with hepatitis B and D and asthma treatments set to be included shortly after.

The rollout initially covers approximately 23,000 prescriptions per month, with a target of 66,000 within three months — about one-third of the 180,000 high-cost prescriptions issued monthly nationwide.

Patients can apply through a dedicated online platform using their taxisnet credentials and social security number. Requests are approved within two days, and medicines are delivered to the selected pharmacy within six to 10 working days.

Pharmacists will be reimbursed €20 per prescription for dispensing services.

According to the president of the Panhellenic Pharmaceutical Association, Apostolos Valtas, the measure puts an end to the “queues of shame” outside EOPYY pharmacies and strengthens the role of community pharmacists in primary care.

Initially launched as a pilot program in 2020, the initiative is now being implemented nationwide, aiming to ensure faster, more dignified access to essential treatment for chronically ill patients.