PREPAREDNESS OF THE GREEK HEALTHCARE SYSTEM TO RESPOND TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Stefanos Tsistanis, Dimitra Balaska, Dimitrios Karaferis, Vasiliki Malisiova, Dimogerontas Georgios

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Publication year:

2024

Authors:

• Tsistanis Stefanos, Administrator, General Hospital for Children Penteli, Athens, Greece
• Balaska Dimitra, Special Teaching Staff, Laboratory of "Economics, Management, Health Policies and Social Protection," University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
• Karaferis Dimitrios, Laboratory of "Strategic Leadership & Digital Transformation (iLEADS)," University of Piraeus, Greece
• Malisiova Vasiliki, Administrator, 1st Health Region of Attica, Athens, Greece
• Georgios Dimogerontas, Neurosurgeon, Peristeri Medical Center, Athens, Greece

Keywords index:

• COVID19
• Greece
• Pandemic
• Health policies
• Health systems
• Telemedicine

Pages: 335-344

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.21325404

Abstract:

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic constituted an unprecedented challenge for healthcare systems worldwide, highlighting the need for preparedness, rapid response, and effective management of public health crises.

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the preparedness of the Greek healthcare system to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology: A literature review of Greek and international scientific sources was conducted, along with an analysis of available data from reliable online sources regarding the management of the pandemic in Greece.

Results: The findings showed that the Greek Healthcare System was not fully prepared to face the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly due to long-standing issues such as understaffing and limited resources. However, the timely implementation of public health measures, the strengthening of healthcare structures, and the cooperation between governmental and social institutions contributed significantly to mitigating the impact of the crisis.

Conclusions: The pandemic highlighted the need for continuous strengthening of the healthcare system, improved crisis management planning, and investment in human and material resources in order to ensure greater resilience against future public health threats.