Healthcare access for refugees in Greece: Challenges and opportunities

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Migration Studies
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Over one million refugees and migrants arrived in Europe in 2015, primarily through Greece.
• This influx strained local health systems, revealing a need for preparedness for migrant health.
• International agreements like the Global Compact on Migration (2018) address migration but lack health focus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the evolution of the health response for refugees in Greece over three years.
• To identify challenges encountered during the health response.
• To assess efforts aimed at integrating refugees into the Greek health system.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of the health response evolution.
• Identification and examination of challenges faced.
• Evaluation of integration strategies for refugee healthcare.

Main Results:

• Significant strains on Greek health systems due to refugee arrivals.
• Ongoing need for cost-effective primary and secondary health services for migrants.
• Exploration of the dynamic health response and integration initiatives.

Conclusions:

• The Greek health system faced considerable pressure from refugee and migrant populations.
• Effective integration of refugees into national health systems is crucial.
• Continued efforts are needed to ensure adequate health services for displaced persons.