New NHS appointment system launches October 1

From October 1, Greece’s National Health System (NHS) will launch a new digital appointment platform for hospitals and health centers, aiming to simplify access to healthcare and reduce waiting times.

The current system of calling hospitals or the 1535 line will be phased out. Citizens will now be able to book appointments for free through:

National health line: 1566

MyHealth app (using Taxisnet credentials)

Website: finddoctors.gov.gr

In-person and phone bookings at facilities will still be possible, but all appointments must now be recorded digitally, via the IDIKA platform.

According to Deputy Health Minister Marios Themistokleous, the system will boost monthly patient capacity from 500,000 to over 830,000, thanks to better coordination and faster access.

“This is a new era for the NHS,” he said, promising no lost appointments, shorter waiting times, and full transparency for patients.

The 1566 line, already active, will also provide services like:

Booking diagnostic tests

Arranging prescriptions and personal doctor visits

Finding nearby pharmacies and accessing home delivery for high-cost medicines

Enrolling in vaccination and prevention programs

By end of 2025, all NHS services will be available through 1566 and the digital platforms.