Reforming the reform: the Greek National Health System in transition

Health Policy. 2002 Oct;62(1):15-29. doi: 10.1016/s0168-8510(01)00217-2.

Abstract

The National Health System (ESY) in Greece, which was established in 1983, is in a state of continuous crisis. This situation is caused mainly by the system's problematic administration, low productivity and inadequate Primary Health Care. These have led the re-elected PASOK government to introduce by the end of 2000 a radical reform of the health system. The 200 reform measures announced by the new Minister of Health and Welfare include changes aiming at: the decentralization of the ESY, the creation of a unified financing system for the social insurance funds, a new management structure in public hospitals, the organization of a Primary Health System in urban areas, and the strengthening of Public Health and Health Promotion. These changes are presented and discussed in this paper.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Greece
  • Health Care Reform / organization & administration*
  • Health Expenditures / statistics & numerical data
  • Health Promotion / organization & administration
  • Hospitals, Public / organization & administration
  • Humans
  • Male
  • National Health Programs / organization & administration*
  • Primary Health Care / organization & administration
  • Public Health Administration
  • Urban Population