Starting from February 16, the Greek healthcare system introduces a new option for patients with serious conditions to receive high-cost medications (ΦΥΚ) for free. This initiative aims to alleviate long waiting times at the pharmacies of EOPYY, the National Organization for Healthcare Provision. In addition to the existing options of picking up medications from EOPYY pharmacies or having them delivered to home, patients can now collect their medications from local pharmacies, providing them immediate access to professional advice from pharmacists regarding the appropriate use of their treatments.

The implementation of this new system will be conducted via a platform established by EOPYY, with around 10,500 out of the total 10,850 pharmacies in Greece participating. Patients diagnosed with cancer and multiple sclerosis will be the first to benefit from this initiative, as they will be able to submit their requests through the platform and arrange to collect their medications on a set schedule from their chosen pharmacy. The launch of this process is expected to affect an estimated 23,000 prescriptions, thus improving the accessibility of essential medications for these patients.

This move represents a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency of the healthcare system in Greece and ensuring that patients with serious health issues receive necessary medications in a timely manner. The ability to get direct consultation from pharmacists at local pharmacies not only facilitates better medication management but also supports patients' health needs in a more community-oriented environment, marking a progressive change in the approach to healthcare services in the country.