Shortages of medicines in Greek public hospitals

3.2.2016

Question for written answer E-001016-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Theodoros Zagorakis (PPE)

Greek public hospitals have recently been faced with serious shortages of in medicines, endangering the health of patients with serious chronic disorders. The Athens Medical Association has expressed great concern, observing that the problems besetting public hospitals over the last few weeks are unprecedented, even taking into account the economic crisis. Dozens of cancer patients have recently remained without treatment at a major hospital in Athens. The situation is more or less the same in most Greek public hospitals owing to lack of funding for the purchase of medicines.

In view of this:

Is the Commission aware of the problems faced by Greek public hospitals resulting from the severe shortage of medicines?

Are the shortages linked to the economic adjustment programme for Greece or is the problem simply one of mismanagement?

How can it help bring about the necessary healthcare reforms and tackle the problems of organising and funding the Greek public health system?