Round the clock medical centers imminent to ease burden on hospitals

As the next phase of its response to the coronavirus pandemic the Health Ministry has planned an overhaul of the primary healthcare system that aims to relieve some of the pressure on overburdened hospitals, chiefly through the creation of a network of 24-hour medical centers treating patients with mild symptoms of Covid-19.

The centers will be used to treat patients whose symptoms are manageable, particularly those who belong to high-risk groups such as the elderly, transferring them to the hospital only if necessary.

Citizens will also be able to call the centers for advice or have online consultations, and private doctors will also be able to participate, charging 10 euros per call.

The first 24-hour Covid-19 centers are to be set up in Attica, at existing healthcare facilities on Alexandras Avenue in central Athens, as well as in Kalyvia, Rafina, Kaminia...