Why Brussels is Concerned About Greek Hospitals and More

As summer approaches, concerns about healthcare services in Greece are rising. According to a recent study by the European Investment Bank (EIB), Attica, Western Greece (Epirus, Aetolia-Acarnania), Peloponnese, and Crete could face significant pressure on their healthcare systems due to climate change. The estimated annual increase in healthcare demand is 0.5%, with over 500 million hospital days, 120 million emergency visits, and 380 million outpatient consultations expected. Meanwhile, holiday costs in Spain and Portugal remain cheaper than in Greece. Germany’s statistical office reports that destinations like Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria offer significantly lower prices compared to Germany. Regarding internal migration, Greece’s government plans to extend relocation programs to Western Macedonia, Epirus, and Aegean islands. In the private sector, the Hellenic Development Bank (HDB) aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its new ‘Academy’ initiative, providing educational and advisory services. Additionally, the Patent Fund, worth over €40 million, will help innovative businesses secure international patents. OTE Estate manages a real estate portfolio valued at €1.2 billion, expanding into tourism with renovations on Paros. Lastly, the electricity interconnection between Attica and Crete has facilitated a ‘brain gain,’ attracting Greek scientists back home. Meanwhile, Europe remains heavily reliant on China for rare earth elements, unlike Japan and the U.S., which have diversified their supplies.