On March 18 and 19, doctors and healthcare workers in Greece are escalating their protests against the Ministry of Health due to significant salary cuts and staff shortages in public hospitals. Reports indicate that doctors' salaries have seen reductions averaging approximately 238 euros since 2012, leading to a concerning exodus of around 8,000 healthcare workers. This situation has prompted unions to call for a nationwide strike, highlighting the negative impact on the healthcare system and patient care.

The strike begins with a 24-hour nationwide stoppage organized by the Greek Federation of Hospital Doctors (ΟΕΝΓΕ) and a rally set for noon on March 18 at the Ministry of Health. On March 19, the Public Hospital Workers' Union (ΠΟΕΔΗΝ) will take over with a work stoppage in the greater Athens area from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, accompanied by a nationwide strike in regional hospitals. The actions reflect the grave dissatisfaction among healthcare professionals concerning their pay and working conditions, posing a serious threat to the functioning of the healthcare system.

The unions have pointed out that increases in salaries have been negligible, sometimes less than one euro per year, which is vastly inadequate given the rising cost of living and increased demands on healthcare services. This ongoing protest underscores broader issues within the Greek healthcare system, including insufficient funding and the urgent need for reforms to address the needs of both patients and healthcare workers alike.