National Health System: 8.26 million euros from ESPA for Emergency Departments and surgeries

New funding of 8.26 million euros from ESPA is directed at upgrading the operation of the National Health System, according to an announcement transmitted on Monday, September 28, 2026 by the newspaper “Ta Nea”. The interventions are part of the ESPA Program “Human Resources and Social Cohesion 2021-2027” and concern Emergency Departments, the planning of surgeries and the economic and operational management of health units. The goal, as stated, is to reduce waiting times in emergency departments, to limit delays and cancellations in surgeries and to make better use of available resources in hospitals.

The first Action, titled “Systemic upgrade of the operation of Emergency Departments and the planning of surgeries to improve the quality of health services provided,” has a total public expenditure of 2.197.280 euros. The intervention in emergency departments focuses on reducing waiting times, optimizing the patient pathway within hospitals and more effectively managing emergency situations and periods of increased demand. The redesign of patient flow management processes is planned, from entry and triage to completion of service, the use of digital tools for recording and forecasting workload, as well as strengthening coordination between emergency departments and other hospital units.

At the same time, this project emphasizes improving surgery planning, through reorganization of procedures and adoption of best management practices, aimed at reducing delays and cancellations, better utilization of surgical theaters and human resources, and strengthening collaboration among health professionals. The second Action, “Mechanism for supporting the economic and operational sustainability of Health Services,” has a total public expenditure of 6.066.204 euros and provides for the development and pilot operation of an integrated mechanism of administrative support, with modern tools and methodologies for the management of health units.

Specifically, the goal of the second intervention is to ensure the economic stability of the system, with reduction of waste and better allocation of resources, as well as improving operational efficiency and quality of health care, with the long-term sustainability of the National Health System as the ultimate goal. Particular emphasis is given to strengthening the interconnection and collaboration between the Ministry of Health, Health Regions and Health Centers, which form a key pillar of Primary Health Care. The implementation of the two Actions is expected to have an immediate impact on the daily operation of hospitals across the country, with citizens monitoring whether the announced improvements will result in shorter waiting times, an issue that is also connected with developments in health and economy at the national level.