The investigation focusses on the 29 hospitals and 14 health centres in Northern Greece, uncovering widespread issues, particularly outside Thessaloniki. Among the most alarming findings is the severe shortage of pathologists, which has left many hospitals struggling to provide basic care. The report also details extensive delays in surgical procedures due to the closure of operating theatres and a lack of medical staff.
At AHEPA University Hospital, one of the region’s largest facilities, only 4 out of 10 operating theatres are functional due to shortages in nursing staff and essential materials. Theageneio Cancer Hospital is facing a 25-30% shortfall in general staff, while Hippocrates Hospital reports a 30% shortage across all medical specialities.
The situation is equally dire in other parts of Northern Greece. In the Kilkis Prefecture, the lack of a modern hospital has left healthcare services in buildings dating back to 1938 and 1952. Patients are crammed into outdated five-bed, six-bed, and even eight-bed wards, making it nearly impossible for medical and nursing staff to provide adequate care.
Equipment shortages are another critical issue. For example, the hospital in Serres does not have an MRI machine, forcing patients to rely on private facilities for essential diagnostic services.
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