The implementation of Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs) in Greece's private healthcare market and military hospitals is entering its final stage, with the expected publication of a Government Gazette (FEK) and the signing of a cooperation memorandum. Originally planned for January 1, 2026, opposition from parts of the private sector due to staff shortages has created delays, but recent announcements indicate a firm commitment to this timeline.

The Greek Ministry of Health has been keen to fully implement the DRG system by 2026, which aims to standardize hospital billing by grouping services based on diagnoses. According to Leonidas Papaioannou, the director of economic documentation and pricing at the National Center for Hospital Management, the upcoming FEK will outline the hospital fees for both private clinics and military hospitals. This implementation signifies a significant shift in how healthcare services are billed, promoting efficiency and accountability within the sector.

Despite the resistance faced from some corners of the private healthcare market, the expected FEK is a crucial step towards achieving a standardized framework within the healthcare payment system in Greece. The successful integration of these new billing guidelines will not only impact how hospitals operate but could also enhance patient care and resource allocation amidst ongoing staffing challenges.