In a recent statement, Greek Health Undersecretary Marios Themistocles revealed a remarkable 60% reduction in waiting times for serious medical procedures. This achievement follows the introduction of afternoon surgeries aimed at alleviating the backlog of surgical cases. Themistocles provided context by mentioning that around 170,000 backlog cases were identified prior to 2023, many of which were hidden, particularly in Northern Greece. The digital tracking and consolidation of waiting lists have played a crucial role in addressing these issues.

The primary objective, as articulated by Themistocles, is to ensure that most surgical patients experience a waiting time of four months, aligning with international standards for non-emergency cases, which typically range from four to six months. For emergency procedures, he assured that there is no waiting time whatsoever. This strategy aims not only to standardize waiting times but also to enhance patient satisfaction and access to healthcare services across Greece.

The improvements in surgical waiting times are anchored on three main strategies: the increase in the number of morning surgeries, where over 50,000 additional procedures have been performed in the past year, and the ongoing availability of free afternoon surgeries, both of which aim to streamline patient flow and reduce delays in treatment. By focusing on these areas, the Greek health system is making strides toward better efficiency and care quality, ultimately benefiting patients nationwide.