Health Care Reform in Greece: Progress and Reform Priorities

Author/Editor:

Niki Kalavrezou ; Hui Jin

Publication Date:

July 16, 2021

Electronic Access:

Free Download. Use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this PDF file

Disclaimer: IMF Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to encourage debate. The views expressed in IMF Working Papers are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF, its Executive Board, or IMF management.

Summary:

We review Greek public sector healthcare policies and health-related outcomes since 2010.We find that excess spending was successfully curtailed, elements of the institutional framework were modernized, and health outcomes have been relatively favorable. However, especially prior to Covid-19, public healthcare spending had been compressed to potentially unsustainable levels, with widening inequalities and large unmet needs, especially among the poor. Higher public spending and advancing structural healthcare reforms are needed to improve the efficiency and equity of the Greek healthcare system, including strengthening primary healthcare, reducing out-of-pocket payments, and eliminating remaining insurance gaps.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2021/189

Subject:

Frequency:

regular

English

Publication Date:

July 16, 2021

ISBN/ISSN:

9781513588834/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2021189

Pages:

39

Please address any questions about this title to publications@imf.org