Author: k3-editor

Mapping the efficiency of cancer care in Greece: findings from the All.Can Greece report

Cancer care efficiency in Greece remains one of the most complex and pressing challenges for the Greek health system — not only in terms of its clinical burden, but also in how care is organized around the patient.

With approximately 63,000 new cancer cases diagnosed annually and more than 32,000 cancer-related deaths each year, Greece faces a steadily increasing oncological burden. Projections suggest that cancer incidence will rise by around 23% by 2040, further intensifying pressure on health services.

Against this backdrop, All.Can Greece has published a landmark report titled “Mapping the Efficiency of Cancer Care in Greece”, based on the pilot implementation of the All.Can Action Guide for Efficient Cancer Care.

Rather than simply describing the current situation, the report aims to measure it — identifying where efficiency is lost across the cancer care pathway and where targeted reforms could make the greatest impact.

Cancer care efficiency in Greece: delays in care delivery

One of the most critical findings of the report relates to delays in the patient journey.

Despite the existence of modern infrastructure and highly specialized oncology centres, significant delays persist between initial suspicion, diagnosis, and the start of treatment.

These delays are not the result of a single bottleneck, but of systemic fragmentation:

  • fragmented referral pathways,
  • limited coordination between levels of care,
  • and the absence of standardized clinical protocols.

A key structural weakness is the lack of systematic monitoring of waiting times and time-to-treatment indicators. As a result, inefficiencies remain partially invisible to the system itself, limiting the ability to implement targeted improvements.

Fragmentation across the care continuum

The report highlights a broader issue of fragmentation in cancer care delivery.

The patient journey from primary care to specialist oncology services is often not clearly structured or consistently coordinated. Referral pathways depend heavily on individual practice rather than standardized national protocols.

A major gap is the absence of structured patient navigation services. In practice, this means that patients and families are often left to navigate a complex system on their own, increasing delays and adding unnecessary psychological burden.

At the same time, multidisciplinary tumor boards represent a positive development, supporting collaborative clinical decision-making across specialties. However, systematic monitoring of their performance remains limited.

The development of Comprehensive Cancer Centers is identified as a promising step forward, although further regulatory strengthening and clearer governance structures are still needed to maximize their impact.

Patient-centered care: progress with remaining gaps

Greece has made notable progress in collecting Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and Patient-Reported Experience Measures (PREMs), reflecting a growing commitment to integrating patient perspectives into care delivery.

However, patients’ access to their own clinical data remains limited, restricting their ability to actively participate in decision-making processes.

In addition, patient education and shared decision-making are not yet systematically embedded across the health system.

Another important gap concerns survivorship care. As cancer survival rates improve, the lack of structured long-term follow-up pathways leaves many patients without continuous support after active treatment ends.

Key policy directions

The report outlines several strategic priorities for improving cancer care efficiency in Greece:

  • Development of a comprehensive national cancer strategy with clear targets and governance mechanisms
  • Strengthening coordination across all levels of care
  • Implementation of standardized clinical pathways with defined time-to-treatment and quality indicators
  • Investment in oncology workforce capacity, particularly in shortage specialties
  • Establishment of structured patient navigation programmes
  • Acceleration of Comprehensive Cancer Center development
  • Systematic use of health data for monitoring performance and accountability
  • Greater patient engagement through PROMs, PREMs, and shared decision-making

Conclusion: a system with strong foundations but limited integration

Greece has many of the essential building blocks for a high-performing cancer care system — including infrastructure, clinical expertise, and emerging digital health capabilities.

However, the key challenge lies not in the existence of these components, but in their integration.

The All.Can Greece report highlights a system that is still operating in silos: strong individual elements that do not yet function as a fully connected care pathway.

In oncology, this lack of integration is not merely an organizational issue. It directly affects timeliness, patient experience, and ultimately outcomes.

The opportunity now lies in moving from fragmented capacity to coordinated care — where patients no longer have to bridge the gaps between system components themselves.

Source: Mapping-the-Efficiency-of-Cancer-Care-in-Greece-FINAL

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

EOPYY: New reimbursement framework for respiratory devices – What changes for patients

The reimbursement of respiratory devices under EOPYY has been updated through a new decision published in the Government Gazette (FEK) on April 27, 2026.

On April 27, 2026, a new EOPYY decision was published in the Government Gazette, establishing revised reimbursement prices for respiratory devices such as CPAP, Auto CPAP, and BiPAP machines.

These are medical devices primarily used by patients with respiratory disorders, including sleep apnoea, and they represent a fundamental part of daily treatment and quality of life.

EOPYY reimbursement for respiratory devices: what changes

With this regulation:

  • specific reimbursement prices are defined for each category of respiratory device
  • the prices apply to all products included in the Reimbursed Medical Devices Register
  • previous decisions for the same categories are replaced

Prices are unified per device category, regardless of manufacturer or commercial model.

What this means for patients

The new EOPYY reimbursement framework for respiratory devices provides a clearer structure for people living with respiratory conditions who depend on these devices in their daily lives:

  • it clarifies what is covered by EOPYY
  • it strengthens transparency regarding equipment costs
  • it ensures access to essential therapeutic tools that are not a choice, but a necessity

In some cases, a patient co-payment may apply when the device price exceeds the reimbursement amount.

Temporary nature of the regulation

The decision is considered temporary, as it is part of a transitional framework until the completion of the negotiation process for final pricing.

Nevertheless, it is fully applicable from the moment of its publication in the Government Gazette and constitutes the current reimbursement framework.

A more human perspective

Behind technical terms, codes, and regulatory tables, there are people who rely on these devices to breathe better, sleep better, and maintain a more stable daily life.

A clear reimbursement framework is not merely an administrative measure. It helps reduce uncertainty in situations that are already difficult to manage.

Source

The full text of the decision, along with the detailed list of reimbursed respiratory devices and corresponding prices, is available (in Greek) in the Government Gazette (FEK) of April 27, 2026.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Additional Rebate on High-Cost Medicines for 2025: What the New Decision Foresees

 

 

 

Kapa3 swims for life, hope and strength

On May 24, 2026, Kapa3 will participate in the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Open Water Swim, organized by the Nautical Club of Vouliagmeni, inviting friends, athletes, and swimmers to join the team and swim together for an important cause.

In light of June being recognized worldwide as Cancer Survivors Month, and Cancer Survivors Day being observed every year on the first Sunday of June, we come together in an initiative dedicated to life, hope, remembrance, and support.

We swim for those who survived.
We swim for those currently facing cancer.
We swim in memory of those we have lost.
We swim to remind everyone that no one is alone in the cancer journey.

Cancer survivorship is not only a medical outcome. It is an ongoing journey closely connected to prevention, early diagnosis, equal access to oncology care, rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and quality of life.

Recognizing the positive impact of physical activity on wellbeing, empowerment, and the smooth reintegration of people with cancer experience into social, family, and professional life, Kapa3 proudly takes part in a celebration of sports, the sea, and community participation.

Participants may choose one of the following swimming routes:

  • 1,000 m
  • 2,500 m
  • 5,000 m

We invite you to become part of our team.
To swim together.
To turn every meter in the sea into a message of strength, care, and hope.

On May 24, we swim with Kapa3 for life.

INFORMATION – REGISTRATIONS

Katerina Georgiopoulou
Social Worker

CANCER GUIDANCE CENTER, KAPA 3,
13 Kosti Palama Street, Athens 11141, Greece – 3rd Floor
Tel: +30 210 52 21 424 & +30 6906265170 (09:00–17:00)
Email: info@kapa3.gr

Kapa3 in the second half of April: Information, collaborations and strengthening patient care

Kapa3 in April

Throughout April, Kapa3 continued to develop actions and initiatives aimed at improving access to care for oncology patients and their families, with a strong focus on information, prevention, and the development of innovative collaborations.

This period’s activities focused on raising awareness about key cancer types, improving patients’ daily lives through policy and systemic developments, and expanding partnerships that enhance the quality of care and services provided.

In an ever-evolving healthcare environment, the connection between reliable information, human support, and technology remains a key pillar for a more accessible and effective care system.

Below are the main initiatives and developments that marked the second half of the month.

Awareness

April is an awareness month for head and neck cancer as well as testicular cancer, highlighting the importance of prevention and early diagnosis. Although these types of cancer are often underrepresented in public discourse, awareness plays a crucial role in reducing late diagnoses and improving patients’ quality of life.

Patients’ rights

Important developments took place in the field of patients’ rights, including the establishment of the National Registry for Hospital-at-Home Care (NOSPI), aiming to better organise and ensure the safety of home-based care.

At the same time, the new framework for Public Administration introduces changes that directly affect citizens’ daily lives, enhancing transparency, reducing bureaucracy, and improving access to public services.

Collaborations

During April, Kapa3 further strengthened its network of collaborations through significant partnerships.

The collaboration with the PRAXI Network/FORTH, within the European smartHEALTH hub, enhances participation in innovation and health policy initiatives, opening new opportunities at European level.

In addition, the partnership with Karkinaki focuses on supporting children, adolescents, and families living with cancer, promoting a holistic approach to care.

Furthermore, the collaboration with SimasiaAI for the development of “Myrto”, an AI-powered digital assistant, highlights the importance of technology in empowering patients and improving access to reliable information and services.

Research & knowledge

A new international report on person-centred cancer care highlights the need for a holistic model that places the patient at the centre. This approach recognises not only clinical needs but also psychosocial dimensions, reinforcing the importance of patient involvement in decision-making.

Patients & society

On the occasion of European Patients’ Rights Day (18 April), Kapa3 highlighted the importance of equal access to quality care. Despite progress, challenges such as inequalities and delays remain, making the continued strengthening of support structures essential.

Supporting our work

Kapa3’s collection of handmade scarves continues to serve as a creative way of supporting the organisation’s mission, combining aesthetics with meaningful contribution to people living with cancer.

We continue to monitor developments and work towards improving patients’ daily lives — more news coming soon.

Text/adaptation: Ifigenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

MELODIC Online Symposium: completion of the pilot training phase and strengthening psychosocial cancer care

The European project MELODIC (Mental Health Support for Young Adults with Cancer), in which the Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 participates, is being implemented through distinct development phases. The pilot training programme for healthcare professionals is one of its core components, and within this framework, the MELODIC Online Symposium 2026, taking place on 24 April 2026, marks the completion of this educational phase.

The MELODIC project framework

MELODIC is a European project co-funded by the European Union, aiming to strengthen the mental health of young adults living with cancer, as well as to support their families. Through the collaboration of universities, research institutions and healthcare organizations across Europe, the project develops training and support tools for healthcare professionals.

More information about the project and its progress is available on the official Kapa3 website, in the dedicated project section.

The pilot training programme

The pilot training programme focused on enhancing the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals in providing psychosocial support to young adults with cancer and their families.

As part of the programme, online sessions and contact lessons were delivered, aiming to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and support the practical application of tools in everyday clinical practice.

MELODIC Online Symposium 2026

The MELODIC Online Symposium 2026, a two-hour event, brings together participants from all partner countries and includes:

  • opening presentations from the European Cancer Organisation and Youth Cancer Europe
  • an “experts by experience” panel, where individuals share their lived experience
  • a networking panel with healthcare professionals from participating countries
  • discussion on how training can be applied in clinical practice
  • a closing session by the project coordination team

From training to clinical practice

A key objective of the MELODIC training programme is to strengthen the psychosocial dimension of cancer care, with particular focus on young adults.

The exchange of experiences among healthcare professionals contributes to more holistic approaches to care and supports the integration of psychosocial support into daily clinical practice.

The role of Kapa3

Kapa3 actively participates in the European MELODIC consortium, contributing to the implementation of the training activities and the dissemination of results in Greece. Through this involvement, the connection between scientific knowledge and the support of cancer patients is further strengthened, promoting the development of practical approaches to psychosocial care.

The MELODIC Online Symposium 2026 marks the transition from the pilot training phase to the next stage of utilizing its outcomes, reinforcing the link between education and real-world application in cancer care.

The Press Release here: PRESS-RELEASE-MELODIC SYMPOSIUM

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Research studies giving voice to lived experience

At Kapa3, we actively encourage participation in health research studies, as we work every day alongside people affected by cancer, whether as patients or caregivers. Through this work, it becomes increasingly clear how important it is to truly listen to lived experience.

For this reason, the research initiatives we support or contribute to are not just questionnaires. They are a way to better understand the needs, experiences and priorities of the community we serve.

Through participation in these studies, individuals who are at the centre of the cancer experience are given the opportunity to share their reality. Every response, every story, every contribution adds another piece to a broader picture: a more meaningful and human-centred approach to care and support.

The contribution of each participant is highly valuable. The data collected helps us identify needs that are often not visible, better understand challenges, and design actions that reflect the real everyday lives of people.

Through participation in health research studies, lived experience can be transformed into knowledge that makes a real difference. Each study we support is part of a broader effort to understand the experiences of patients and caregivers.

Below you will find the current research studies open for participation, organised by target audience.

Each health research study includes a short description of its purpose and how participation contributes to the overall research effort.

For healthcare professionals

Patient safety culture in hospitals

A pilot study focused on the translation and adaptation of the international SOPS® Hospital Survey 2.0 developed by the AHRQ, adapted for the Greek hospital setting.

The aim of the study is to evaluate the clarity, comprehension and suitability of the tool through the participation of healthcare professionals working in hospital environments.

The study also includes a test–retest phase to assess the stability of responses over time.

Participation: https://forms.gle/Jev7mQ95vt1swtXF7

For research networks and collaborations

sleepCare – sleep quality assessment

The sleepCare research initiative, in collaboration with Christos Frantzidis (University of Lincoln) and his research team, explores sleep quality through real-life experiences and self-reported data from participants.

The aim is to better understand the factors that influence sleep in everyday life through anonymous data collection and short questionnaires.

English questionnaire: https://lnkd.in/e7wYjspX
Greek questionnaire: https://lnkd.in/ejbjGQPC
Platform: https://lnkd.in/e7YHUXdi

For breast cancer survivors

Survivorship experience and quality of life

A thesis-based research study examining fear of cancer recurrence, quality of life, and the role of social support among breast cancer survivors in Greece.

The aim is to better understand post-treatment experiences and the factors that influence psychosocial well-being.

Participation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUgku0yi7LBGg42v_FeKtzVsj5F5uw8hYr-y-hcVKL-fhoeQ/viewform

For patients with respiratory conditions and caregivers

Lung transplantation experiences in Greece

A nationwide study collecting experiences, needs and perspectives of patients with respiratory conditions and their caregivers regarding lung transplantation.

The aim is to capture lived experience across all stages of the disease in order to improve care pathways and healthcare services.

The study is open to patients with respiratory conditions (transplanted or not) as well as their caregivers.

Participation: https://forms.gle/66h4CQJK3pdr1gKK7
Information: https://www.cysticfibrosis.gr/draseis/lung-transplant-working-group/

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

April 18: European Patients’ Rights Day

European Patients’ Rights Day is celebrated every year on April 18 and serves as an important occasion to raise awareness about the fundamental rights of all patients in Europe. The day was established by the Active Citizenship Network, aiming to promote equal access to quality healthcare services and safeguard patients’ dignity.

At the European level, patients’ rights do not stem from a single binding legal framework, but from a combination of principles, European directives, and national legislation. A milestone was the European Charter of Patients’ Rights (2002), which established 14 core rights and has become a reference point for many countries.

Key rights include:

  • The right to access healthcare services
  • The right to prevention
  • The right to timely and accurate diagnosis
  • The right to information and informed consent
  • The right to choose treatment
  • The right to privacy and confidentiality
  • The right to safe and high-quality care
  • The right to respect for the patient’s dignity

Despite legislative progress, the full implementation of these rights remains a challenge. According to international reports, in certain vulnerable groups, unmet healthcare needs can reach particularly high levels due to cost, long waiting times, or geographic barriers. Data from the European Commission also highlight delays in diagnoses and treatments, as well as limited patient awareness of available options.

In Greece, patients’ rights are legally protected through, among others, Law 2071/1992 and subsequent regulations. Furthermore, Patient Rights Protection Offices (Γ.Π.Δ.Λ.Υ.Υ.) implement specific regulations for managing complaints, grievances, and positive feedback, as outlined in a Ministry of Health circular (2024). In recent years, significant steps have been taken to strengthen patients’ position in the healthcare system, including:

  • Strengthening the role of Patient Rights Protection Offices in public hospitals
  • Updating the Charter of Rights, with emphasis on modern needs such as digital health and rare diseases
  • Enhancing cooperation between the State, local authorities, academic community, and patient associations
  • Advancing digital transformation, including electronic prescriptions and applications such as MyHealth app

Despite this progress, major challenges remain, such as ensuring equal access to innovative treatments, reducing inequalities, protecting personal data, and guaranteeing high-quality care for all patients.

If a patient feels that their rights have been violated, they can turn to:

  • The hospital administration or the relevant patient rights office
  • The Greek Ombudsman
  • Patient associations or support organizations
  • Relevant health supervisory authorities

In this context, patient organizations and broader civil society organizations, such as Kapa3, play a crucial role—not only in supporting and guiding patients but also in highlighting issues, promoting policy changes, and shaping a fairer and more accessible healthcare system.

Awareness of one’s rights is the first and most essential step toward protecting them. An informed patient can actively participate in decisions concerning their health, advocate for better care, and contribute to improving the healthcare system itself.

This day reminds us that healthcare is not a privilege but a fundamental human right—and that a fair and patient-centered healthcare system is built every day, with respect, information, and active participation from all.

Sources:

  1. European Charter of Patients’ Rights (2002): https://www.activecitizenship.net/charter-of-rights.html
  2. European Commission data: https://health.ec.europa.eu/publications/patients-rights_en
  3. Ministry of Health – Regulations for managing complaints and grievances through Patient Rights Protection Offices (Γ.Π.Δ.Λ.Υ.Υ.) -greek text

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Kapa3 partners with PRAXI Network (FORTH) to boost international networking and access to European funding opportunities

The Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 announces its partnership with the PRAXI Network of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), within the framework of the European Digital Innovation Hub smartHEALTH: European Digital Innovation Hub for Smart Health – Precision Medicine and Innovative e-Health Services.

This collaboration is part of the broader Digital Europe Programme 2021–2027 and aims to strengthen Kapa3’s participation in research, innovation, and health policy initiatives, focusing on improving services and enhancing the quality of life of oncology patients.

Within this partnership, Kapa3 will receive substantial support in identifying and leveraging funding opportunities through systematic information and expert guidance on available programmes at European, national, and regional level, including Horizon Europe, EU4Health, Erasmus+, and EIT Health. At the same time, its capacity to actively participate in competitive proposals and collaborative projects will be reinforced, expanding its potential to develop innovative initiatives in the health sector.

Particular emphasis is also placed on the development of strategic partnerships with universities, research centres, and healthcare organisations across Europe. Through targeted support in partner identification and the exploration of synergies, Kapa3 strengthens its position within the European research and innovation ecosystem, creating opportunities for participation in international consortia.

In parallel, the collaboration contributes to enhancing the organisation’s international presence and networking capacity through participation in thematic conferences, brokerage events, and matchmaking initiatives in the fields of public health, digital health, social innovation, and patient-centred care.

This Kapa3 PRAXI Network partnership is expected to act as a catalyst for strengthening Kapa3’s outward-looking orientation and sustainable development, reinforcing its role as an active and dynamic stakeholder in the field of health and patient support at both national and European level.

The support services are provided within the smartHEALTH framework and are co-funded by European and national resources.

The Founding Sponsor of the “Myrto”Health Navigator is the TIMA Foundation.

Press release source: PRESS-RELEASE-PRAXI-Network-–-FORTH

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Kapa3 and Karkinaki join forces to support children, adolescents, and families living with cancer

The Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 announces its new collaboration with the non-profit organization “Karkinaki”, aiming to strengthen information, psychosocial support, and awareness around childhood and adolescent cancer, as well as to support families experiencing the disease.

Karkinaki is a specialized organization working in the field of childhood and adolescent cancer, focusing on reliable information, empowering parents and caregivers, and fostering a supportive environment around children and teenagers affected by cancer. Through community-based actions and awareness initiatives, it seeks to reduce the sense of isolation that often accompanies diagnosis, while also enhancing understanding, social awareness, and access to available support resources for families.

Within the framework of this collaboration, the two organizations will develop joint initiatives focused on information and awareness-raising, with an emphasis on actions addressing both families and healthcare and support professionals. The partnership will also include the co-organization of informational events, the exchange of good practices, and the exploration of participation in national and European programs that promote a holistic approach to patient care, with an emphasis on continuity of support across all stages of the disease experience.

The Cancer Guidance Center – Kapa3 is dedicated to informing, guiding, and empowering people affected by cancer, providing practical support and access to reliable information and services. At the same time, it develops initiatives that strengthen patients’ active participation in managing their health and promotes a more accessible and human-centered model of care.

In this context, Kapa3 is also involved in European collaborations focusing on the psychosocial dimension of cancer across different stages of life, such as the MELODIC project, which addresses the mental health of young adults with lived experience of cancer. This work further enhances the organization’s ability to recognize needs that emerge throughout the cancer journey, from childhood to adulthood.

This collaboration with Karkinaki reflects the shared vision of both organizations to strengthen a support network that goes beyond medical treatment, extending into families’ daily lives, information access, and psychosocial empowerment, with the aim of providing a more stable and meaningful presence for those who need it most.

Our Press Release here: KARKINAKI PRESS RELEASE

Text: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3