Κapa3 at IEEE CBMS 2026 | AI for Equitable Oncology Information

Kapa3 at IEEE CBMS 2026: Artificial Intelligence in Support of Equitable Patient Information in Oncology Care

New scientific publication in the Proceedings of the 39th IEEE International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems

The voice and lived experience of patients must remain at the centre of the emerging era of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.

Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Centre contributes to a new scientific publication presented in the Proceedings of the 2026 IEEE 39th International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems (CBMS), focusing on how Artificial Intelligence and Retrieval-Augmented Generation can support more equitable, reliable and patient-centred access to information in oncology.

The paper, entitled:

“Informed, Empowered, and Heard: AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation as Tools for Equitable Patient Information in Oncology”

is authored by Lars Münter, Evangeli Bista, Maria Lavdaniti and Christos Frantzidis, with Evangeli Bista representing Kapa3 as Co-founder.

From access to information to meaningful patient empowerment

A cancer diagnosis creates an immediate need for information that is reliable, understandable and relevant to the individual patient.

At the same time, patients and their families are often expected to understand complex medical terminology, treatment options, prognosis discussions and administrative procedures at a moment of intense psychological and emotional pressure.

The paper highlights that acute stress associated with a serious diagnosis can affect working memory, attention and the ability to process new information. This means that patient information cannot be designed for an ideal, fully attentive reader; it must respond to the real cognitive and emotional conditions experienced by people facing cancer.

The key question is therefore not simply:

“How much information do we provide?”

but rather:

“Are we providing the right information, at the right time, in a form that people can understand and act upon?”

AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation: towards trustworthy and evidence-grounded information

The publication places particular emphasis on Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).

RAG architectures combine the generative capabilities of large language models with the retrieval of information from curated and verified knowledge sources. In a healthcare setting, this can include clinical guidelines, validated patient information resources, regulatory documents and peer-reviewed literature.

This approach offers an important advantage over purely generative AI systems: responses can be grounded in identifiable sources, supporting greater transparency and enabling patients and healthcare professionals to verify where information comes from.

In oncology, this is especially important.

A patient does not simply need a quick answer. They need information that is:

accurate, current, understandable, accessible and appropriate to their individual situation.

Artificial Intelligence as a tool for equity

One of the central themes of the paper is inequality in access to high-quality oncology information.

Geography, language, socioeconomic circumstances, health literacy, digital literacy and access to specialised healthcare services can significantly influence a person’s ability to understand their diagnosis, treatment options and rights.

The publication pays particular attention to the Greek context, where patients living in large urban centres may experience a very different information environment from those living in rural, remote or island communities.

When equity is treated as a core design principle, AI-RAG systems can potentially support:

multilingual access to health information,
different levels of language and information complexity,
voice-based interfaces,
shorter and more manageable units of information,
low-bandwidth or offline-capable solutions,
and opportunities for patients to return to information when they are ready to process it.

Technology alone, however, does not create equity.

The way technology is designed determines whether it reduces existing inequalities or reproduces them.

Designed with patients, for patient needs

The paper calls for an important shift in the way digital health systems are developed.

Many traditional health information systems are designed primarily around institutional or clinical workflows, with patient-facing communication added later.

For patient-centred AI, this logic must be reversed.

Systems should be designed with patients and around patient needs, with patients and informal carers actively involved in shaping the knowledge base, the questions the system is expected to answer and the ways information is presented.

This also means moving beyond systems that simply respond to individual questions.

A meaningful AI-supported information environment could help patients prepare for clinical consultations, organise their questions, understand the next steps in their care and become more aware of their rights.

The paper highlights applications such as consultation preparation guides, question prompts before appointments and post-consultation summaries as examples of how technology can support patients before, during and after important healthcare interactions.

AI should strengthen, not replace, human relationships

Perhaps the most important message of the publication is that the transformative potential of AI in oncology is not primarily technical. It is relational.

Artificial Intelligence should not create distance between patients and healthcare professionals.

It should help strengthen their communication.

A better-informed patient can arrive at a clinical consultation more prepared, identify questions and concerns more clearly, participate more actively in shared decision-making and communicate more effectively with the healthcare team.

The same applies to informal carers, who often carry a significant part of the informational and emotional burden of cancer care.

For this reason, the paper argues that AI-RAG systems should be designed to strengthen the relationship between patients, carers and healthcare professionals, rather than to replace any part of this human network of care.

For healthcare professionals, trustworthy information systems may also reduce the time required for basic information provision, allowing more of the clinical encounter to focus on nuanced discussions, decision-making and the human aspects of care that technology cannot replicate.

From information to trust

This scientific contribution adds to an increasingly important discussion about the future of healthcare:

How can Artificial Intelligence be developed and used in ways that genuinely respond to human needs?

The answer does not lie only in more powerful AI models or larger volumes of data.

It also lies in evidence, transparency, accessibility, co-design, equity and respect for patient rights.

As the paper concludes, people affected by cancer in Greece and across Europe deserve access to information that is accurate, personalised, accessible and respectful of their rights, regardless of where they live, the language they speak or the socioeconomic resources available to them.

For Kapa3, participating in this scientific discussion also reflects a broader commitment: ensuring that real patient needs, lived experience and equitable access are represented in the design and evaluation of the next generation of digital health and AI-supported tools.

Publication details

Title: Informed, Empowered, and Heard: AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation as Tools for Equitable Patient Information in Oncology

Authors: Lars Münter, Evangeli Bista, Maria Lavdaniti, Christos Frantzidis

Published in: 2026 IEEE 39th International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems (CBMS)

DOI: 10.1109/CBMS69103.2026.00302

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Evangeli Bista Joins the PATH Expert Group as an Independent Expert: Bringing the Patient Perspective into the New Era of AI in Cancer Care

A new contribution to the European dialogue on safe, responsible and human-centred Artificial Intelligence in healthcare

Evangeli Bista, Co-founder and Head of Operations and Development of Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Centre, has been invited to join the Expert Group of the European research and innovation project PATH – Patient AI Treatment Hub as an independent expert.

Her participation is undertaken in a personal and independent capacity, with her professional affiliation to Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Centre, creating an opportunity to bring into the European dialogue experience gained through direct engagement with people affected by cancer, survivors, caregivers and healthcare professionals. The PATH Terms explicitly define Expert Group members as acting independently rather than as partners, employees, agents or subcontractors of the Consortium.

What is PATH – Patient AI Treatment Hub?

PATH – Patient AI Treatment Hub is a European research and innovation project focused on supporting the safe and effective integration of Artificial Intelligence into cancer care through the development of a secure, interoperable and privacy-preserving digital platform.

The project aims to explore how Artificial Intelligence tools can be safely integrated into cancer-care pathways, supporting healthcare professionals and contributing to more personalised approaches while safeguarding privacy and health data.

At the heart of this effort lies a critical question:

How can technological innovation create meaningful value for patients while preserving trust, human oversight, safety and equity?

Participation in the PATH Expert Group

As a member of the PATH Expert Group, Evangeli Bista will contribute independent expertise, opinions, input, comments and feedback in relation to selected project use cases and activities.

The experience developed through Kapa3’s work can contribute to discussions around issues such as:

patient-centred cancer care,
patient navigation across health and social-care systems,
equitable access to information and services,
health and digital literacy,
health and social rights,
responsible use and protection of health data,
transparency and human oversight in Artificial Intelligence systems,
meaningful involvement of patients and civil society in technology design,
and translating technological innovation into real value for people.

Why the Patient Voice Must Be Part of Innovation

Artificial Intelligence is creating new possibilities for healthcare and cancer care. At the same time, its growing use raises important questions concerning trust, transparency, safety, equitable access and human oversight.

For Kapa3, the development of a digital solution cannot begin solely with the question of what is technologically possible.

It must also ask:

What does the patient actually need?

Can people understand the information they receive?

Do they know where that information comes from?

Can they trust the system?

Is it clear when Artificial Intelligence is being used and when human professional judgement is required?

Could digital inequalities lead to new inequalities in healthcare?

And ultimately, does innovation genuinely improve the experience and pathway of a person facing cancer?

These are questions that we believe should remain at the centre of the European discussion on Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.

Kapa3’s experience in digital health

Evangeli Bista’s participation in the PATH Expert Group comes at a time when Kapa3 is systematically expanding its work in digital health, patient navigation and the responsible use of emerging technologies to support people affected by cancer.

This broader work also includes MYRTO – Digital Navigator for Health and Social Rights, an independent Kapa3 initiative developed to help transform complex and often fragmented information on rights, benefits and administrative procedures into more accessible, structured and evidence-based guidance for patients and caregivers.

MYRTO is not part of PATH, and the two initiatives are independent from one another.

However, the experience of developing patient-facing digital services has reinforced several principles that Kapa3 considers essential:

reliable information, transparent sources, understandable communication, data protection, human oversight and a clear pathway to professional support when technology alone is not enough.

This distinction is also important from an intellectual-property perspective, since the PATH Terms preserve intellectual property that exists independently of the Expert’s Services and is not incorporated into PATH Contributions.

From information to trust

Digital transformation in healthcare is not simply about more data, more algorithms or more applications.

It is about creating greater understanding, better access and stronger trust.

For a person facing cancer, information has value when it can be translated into a meaningful next step.

Technology has value when it reduces — rather than increases — complexity.

And Artificial Intelligence has value when it strengthens, rather than replaces, human care, professional judgement and the patient’s ability to participate meaningfully in decisions affecting their life and health.

A new opportunity to contribute to the European dialogue

For Kapa3, the invitation to Evangeli Bista to participate as an independent expert in the PATH Expert Group represents an important opportunity to bring into the European dialogue experience, needs and concerns emerging from the real-world context of cancer care and patient support.

The objective remains clear:

Artificial Intelligence in healthcare should advance with safety, transparency, responsibility, equitable access and meaningful involvement of the people it is designed to serve.

Because innovation creates real value when it is designed with people and for people.

PATH – Patient AI Treatment Hub | At a glance

Field: Artificial Intelligence and data in cancer care
Project: PATH – Patient AI Treatment Hub
Focus: Safe and effective integration of AI into cancer care through secure, interoperable and privacy-preserving approaches.
Expert Group: Independent external experts providing expertise, opinions, input, comments and feedback to the Project.
Independent Expert: Evangeli Bista
Professional role: Co-founder & Head of Operations and Development
Affiliation: Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Centre

The Value of Pause: Why We Need to “Disconnect” Even During Treatment

Summer is often associated with the idea of holidays. Images of the sea, travel, and carefree moments fill our daily lives, creating the impression that rest requires a suitcase, a destination, and distance from obligations.

However, for cancer patients who are undergoing treatment, recovering from surgery, or waiting for test results, holidays are often not possible. Medical appointments, treatments, side effects, physical fatigue, and uncertainty about one’s health can make travelling difficult or even impossible.

And yet, the need for rest does not diminish. On the contrary, it often becomes even more important.

Perhaps, then, it is worth redefining what a “holiday” means. Not as travelling somewhere else, but as the ability to pause, even briefly, the relentless cycle of stress, worry, and constant vigilance that often accompanies serious illness. It can be a reminder that life is not only about the disease.

Rest is not a luxury — it is a need

Recent scientific literature shows that people need periods of recovery in order to maintain psychological and physical balance. Recovery is not simply “resting”; it is a process through which the body reduces the physiological and psychological burden caused by chronic stress.

In psychology, the term psychological detachment is used to describe the mental ability to step away from sources of pressure. This means allowing oneself, even for a short while, not to think constantly about what feels overwhelming.

Research by Sonnentag, Binnewies, and Mojza (2010) showed that psychological detachment is associated with lower emotional exhaustion, better mood, and greater resilience in everyday life. Similarly, Fritz and colleagues (2010) found that people who are able to mentally disengage from stress experience higher levels of well-being, energy, and functioning.

Although these studies were mainly conducted among workers, the underlying mechanism applies to every person: when the brain remains in a constant state of alert, it struggles to recover its strength.

In this sense, these small pauses matter not because they make us “forget” the illness, but because they give the brain an opportunity to step out, even temporarily, of a continuous state of alarm.

When illness takes over every thought

The experience of cancer is not limited to treatment days. It often affects everyday life as a whole. Thoughts about tests, medical decisions, bodily changes, work, family, and the future may accompany a person from morning to night.

This constant mental vigilance is exhausting in itself.

International guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recognise that psychological distress is a common part of the cancer experience and recommend integrating psychosocial support into overall patient care. Likewise, guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) emphasise that mental health care and quality of life are essential parts of cancer management.

Holidays are not always about travelling

It is easy to believe that rest requires a trip. Yet scientific research suggests that the greatest benefit of holidays does not necessarily come from the destination itself, but from a change of pace and temporary distance from stressors.

Nawijn and colleagues (2010) found that people tend to feel greater well-being shortly before and during holidays, but that this feeling often fades relatively soon after they return.

This finding reminds us of something important: psychological renewal does not depend only on a few days of holiday each year, but also on the small moments of relief that we can create in everyday life.

For someone undergoing treatment, these moments may be even more valuable.

What does it mean to “pause” as a cancer patient?

To pause does not mean ignoring reality or neglecting one’s health. It means allowing oneself to remember, even for a little while, that life is not only about illness.

This may include:

a few quiet minutes on the balcony or in the garden,
a short walk in nature, when possible,
listening to favourite music,
reading a book,
engaging in a creative activity,
spending time with people who make us feel safe,
a few minutes of relaxation or mindful breathing, when appropriate for one’s health condition.

These moments do not change the diagnosis. But they can change the experience of the day.

The importance of quality of life

In modern oncology, quality of life is now considered a key therapeutic goal. Treating the disease is not enough; it is equally important for the person to maintain as much functionality, autonomy, emotional balance, and sense of meaning as possible.

This importance is also reflected in the value framework for cancer treatments developed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). According to this framework, the value of a treatment is not determined solely by its effectiveness, but also by its toxicity, its impact on quality of life, and the personal priorities and preferences of the patient.

This highlights the importance of personalised, patient-centred care, in which the person’s everyday experience is an essential part of the therapeutic process.

Within this perspective, small moments of pause, the continuation of pleasant activities, and connection with what brings joy are not secondary aspects of life. They are meaningful elements that contribute to preserving quality of life. They are not luxuries, signs of weakness, or attempts to avoid reality. They are forms of self-care.

The same applies to family caregivers, who often experience high levels of emotional and physical burden. Taking some time for their own rest is not selfishness; it is a necessary condition for continuing to support their loved one in a meaningful way.

The value of a small pause

The experience of cancer often extends beyond the limits of the disease itself, affecting a person’s self-image, social roles, and daily life. Intense psychological distress and uncertainty can gradually allow the illness to occupy more and more space in life.

In this context, psycho-oncological education appears particularly important. Its aim is to help patients and family caregivers understand the emotional reactions that naturally accompany diagnosis and treatment, develop more effective coping strategies, and actively participate in treatment decisions.

In this way, the sense of control and self-efficacy is strengthened, while also preserving the sense that a person remains something more than their illness.

When health does not allow for travel, it is easy to feel deprived of something important. Yet perhaps the essence of a holiday lies not in the distance we travel, but in the distance we allow ourselves to take from stress.

To “pause” does not mean to stop being a patient. It means allowing oneself, even for a little while, to be something more than the illness.

Perhaps, in the end, the most meaningful holidays are not those that take us far from home, but those that allow us to rest the body, calm the mind, and turn toward ourselves with greater care.

A peaceful sunlit balcony with a chair, a book, a cup, flowers, and an olive tree, illustrating the importance of small moments of rest and self-care during cancer treatment.

By Marilia Barka
Psychology Student
Kapa3 Volunteer

New Scientific Publication with the Participation of Kapa3: Cancer Survivorship in the Post-COVID-19 Era

New scientific publication involving the Cancer Patient Guidance Center – Kapa3 highlights the significant psychological, social, and functional challenges that people living with and beyond cancer continue to face following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The article, entitled “Cancer Survivorship After COVID-19: Psychological Burden, Symptom Experience, and Social Support,” was published in the international peer-reviewed journal Medicina. It examines psychological distress, symptom experience, quality of life, and the protective role of social support among people affected by cancer.

What Did the Study Examine?

The research involved 162 adults diagnosed with cancer in Greece during the post-COVID-19 period. Participants completed validated questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety, stress, health-related quality of life, and perceived social support.

The results revealed a substantial and persistent psychological burden:

32.1% of participants reported severe or extremely severe depression.
40.1% reported severe or extremely severe anxiety.
29% reported severe or extremely severe stress.

The overall quality of life of participants was found to be moderate. Emotional and social functioning were among the most affected areas, while fatigue, insomnia, breathlessness, and financial difficulties emerged as some of the most significant challenges in everyday life.

The Close Relationship Between Mental Health and Quality of Life

One of the study’s key findings was the strong relationship between psychological distress and poorer quality of life.

Higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were associated with:

poorer daily and functional performance;
lower perceived overall health;
greater symptom severity;
increased difficulty in emotional and social functioning.

The results demonstrate that psychological well-being cannot be separated from the physical, social, and practical experience of cancer.

Social Support as a Protective Factor

At the same time, the study underlines the important protective role of social support.

Support from family members, friends, and other significant people was associated with better overall health and functioning, lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and reduced symptom burden.

The findings show that social connection is not simply an additional element of care. It is a meaningful component of recovery, adaptation, and quality of life throughout the cancer journey.

Cancer Survivorship Does Not End When Treatment Is Completed

The findings reinforce the need to move beyond a model of oncology care focused exclusively on treating the disease.

Cancer survivorship requires a comprehensive, person-centred approach that addresses the physical, psychological, social, functional, and financial dimensions of life with and after cancer.

Routine psychological assessment, early identification of emotional distress, timely referral to psycho-oncology services, rehabilitation, social support, and the meaningful involvement of families and caregivers should become integral parts of standard oncology care.

The study also points to the potential value of telehealth and digital support services in improving access to supportive care. At the same time, it highlights inequalities related to digital literacy, healthcare accessibility, and the ability of all patients to benefit equally from digital services.

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that effective cancer care must be resilient, accessible, multidisciplinary, and capable of maintaining continuity even during periods of crisis.

A Calm Summer Begins with Proper Preparation Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Summer is a valuable opportunity for rest, renewal and quality time with the people we love. For people living with or after a cancer diagnosis, as well as for their caregivers, the possibility of enjoying a few days away from everyday life can contribute meaningfully to physical and mental well-being.

When a person’s health condition allows it, and with the agreement of the treating physician, even a short break can have a beneficial effect, enhancing quality of life and supporting the sense of returning to everyday life (Lim et al., 2022).

The quality of life of people living with or after a cancer diagnosis does not depend solely on medical treatment. Mental well-being, social support, optimism and resilience are equally important factors that facilitate adaptation to the disease and contribute to patients’ overall well-being (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022). At the same time, current guidelines underline the importance of integrated and personalised care, as well as continuous support for people living with or after cancer at every stage of their journey (Hart et al., 2024).

However, the peace of mind associated with holidays does not begin on the day of departure. It begins much earlier, through proper preparation. Practical pending issues, administrative procedures or concerns about unexpected events during the holidays can increase stress and reduce the feeling of safety. By contrast, proactive care planning allows patients to organise what is needed in advance, so that they can devote their time to rest rather than obligations.

Timely renewal of medical certificates, ensuring an adequate supply of medication for the entire period of absence, communicating with the treating physician when necessary, and keeping essential medical documents in an easily accessible format are simple but important steps of preparation. In this way, continuity of care is safeguarded, while the uncertainty that often accompanies travel is reduced.

Reliable information and timely support are key pillars of modern oncology care. When people know where they can turn and have easy access to trustworthy information, they feel safer, their autonomy is strengthened and the management of daily life becomes easier (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022; Hart et al., 2024).

In today’s world, digital tools can complement support services by facilitating access to reliable information wherever the patient may be. In this direction, Kapa3 is moving forward with the development of Myrto, the digital social navigator, designed to provide direct access to information on social rights, available services and useful guidance. In this way, it facilitates access to the organisation’s services and reliable information, contributing to better preparation before and during holidays.

For all of us at Kapa3, technology does not replace human care; it complements it. It is another means of facilitating access to trustworthy information and available services, while the Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 remain the core pillar of holistic support for people living with cancer and their families.

Let us remember that care does not stop when holidays begin. It continues through small but meaningful acts of preparation, proper information and timely planning. Because, many times, the greatest luxury of a holiday is not the destination itself, but the feeling that we can enjoy our moments with calmness, safety and trust.

The Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 wish everyone a safe, peaceful and refreshing summer, with health, strength and beautiful moments.

Before Leaving for Your Holidays…

✔️ Make sure you have an adequate supply of your medication for the entire period of your absence.

✔️ Check whether there are any medical certificates, prescriptions or other administrative pending issues that need to be settled in time.

✔️ Discuss with your treating physician any special instructions related to travel or movement.

✔️ Keep with you the necessary medical documents and important contact details.

✔️ Find out about available support services and make use of the Kapa3 App, so that you have easy access to useful information wherever you are.

References

Hart, N. H., Nekhlyudov, L., Smith, T. J., Yee, J., Fitch, M. I., Crawford, G. B., et al. (2024). Survivorship Care for People Affected by Advanced or Metastatic Cancer: MASCC-ASCO Standards and Practice Recommendations. JCO Oncology Practice, 20(9), 1160–1172. https://doi.org/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim, J. H. C., Keenan, C., & Flaherty, G. T. (2022). All My Life to Live: Travel Health Benefits and Risks for Cancer Survivors. Journal of Travel Medicine, 29(5), taac069. https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®): Survivorship. Version 2.2024. Plymouth Meeting, PA: National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Ruiz-Rodríguez, I., Hombrados-Mendieta, I., Melguizo-Garín, A., & Martos-Méndez, M. J. (2022). The Importance of Social Support, Optimism and Resilience on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 833176. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

World Health Organization. (2022). World Mental Health Report: Transforming Mental Health for All. Geneva: World Health Organization.

Official Access Links

Hart et al., 2024 — MASCC-ASCO Standards:
https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Survivorship:
https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/survivorship.pdf

Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

WHO World Mental Health Report:
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049338

Marilia Barka
Psychology Student
Kapa3 Volunteer

www.linkedin.com/in/maria-garyfalia-marilia-barka-03825a409

DISABILITY CARD OR TRANSPORTATION PASS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 2026. WHAT BENEFICIARIES NEED TO KNOW.

The answer is that the Disability Card has not completely replaced the Transportation Pass. Both of these documents remain valid simultaneously, and the need for one or the
other depends on the mode of transportation used by each eligible person. To make this clearer, here’s what applies in each case.

Athens and Thessaloniki: The Disability Card can be used for urban travel

For travel on OASA transit in Athens and OSETH transit in Thessaloniki, the plastic Disability Card can be used by eligible beneficiaries.

Cardholders can travel by validating their card at the designated machines, without needing to obtain a
separate Travel Pass specifically for these transit services.

The following are required:

the Disability Card must be valid,
must bear the designated disability level II or III designation,
or the beneficiary must receive disability financial assistance from OPEKA,
and income criteria must be met where required.

URBAN KTEL BUSES IN THE PROVINCE: THE TRAVEL PASS REMAINS NECESSARY

This is the point that has caused the most confusion. Possession of a Disability Card does not mean that
the Travel Pass is no longer required for all trips.

For urban KTEL buses operated by the Regional Units, as well as by the municipalities of Kos and
Rhodes, a Mobility Card for People with Disabilities is required, even if the beneficiary holds a Disability Card.

Therefore, those who use urban KTEL buses in their area should apply:
– at the Citizen Service Centers (KEP),
– or at the relevant offices of the Regional Unit.

FOR 2026, THE PROCESS BEGINS ON JULY 1, 2026, AND ENDS ON NOVEMBER 30, 2026.
Intercity Buses (KTEL): 50% Discount on Fares

For travel on intercity buses (KTEL)—that is, for trips from one city to another—a 50% discount is available.
The discount can be obtained with:
– A valid Disability Card,
– or a Transportation Pass for People with Disabilities.

Thus, for intercity routes, the beneficiary has more options.

Are there income criteria for free transportation?

One point that often causes confusion concerns income. There are no income criteria for issuing the Disability Card.

The income limits apply to eligibility for free transportation.

For 2026, the limits are as follows:
– individual taxable income up to 23,000 euros,
– declared family income up to 29,000 euros.

The family income limit increases by 5,600 euros for each additional person with a disability of 67% or higher who lives with and is financially dependent on the taxpayer.

It is important to note that: OPEKA disability benefits are not included in the above income limits. A relevant certificate from OPEKA may be required to exclude them.

Who is exempt from the income criteria?

People who are totally blind are exempt from the income criteria.

What applies to the companion?

In many cases, a companion is also entitled to travel.
If the Disability Card is marked with an “S” (Companion):

in Athens and Thessaloniki, the companion travels with the cardholder upon a single validation of the card. For KTEL buses, however, the prescribed procedure and the corresponding Companion Travel Pass are required where necessary.

So, what do beneficiaries need to keep?

The Disability Card is a significant benefit, but it does not mean that the Travel Pass is being
eliminated.
In simple terms:
Disability Card:
✔ Athens and Thessaloniki
✔ Intercity KTEL buses for a 50% discount
Travel Pass:
✔ Provincial KTEL buses
✔ Situations where a companion’s entitlement is required
✔ Those who do not have a Disability Card

At Kapa3, we believe that accurate information can save time, trips, and unnecessary hassle,
especially for people who already face increased challenges due to a disability or a serious illness.

View the circular here: TRANSPORTATION 2026
DISABILITY CIRCULAR

For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact the Kapa3 team:

📍Athens: 13 Kosti Palama, 3rd floor, (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
📍13 Kosti Palama, 11141 Athens
☎️210 5221424
📱6906265170
www.kapa3.gr, info@kapa3.gr

Head and Neck Cancer: The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Prevention.

July 27 has been designated as World Head and Neck Cancer Day (WHNCD). The initiative was launched on July 27, 2014, during the 5th World Congress of the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncology Societies (IFHNOS) in New York, with the goal of raising awareness, education, and the
promotion of prevention. The declaration is supported by dozens of scientific communities worldwide, governments, and, most notably, the UICC (Union for International Cancer Control).

What is Head and Neck Cancer?
This type of cancer includes tumors located in the oral cavity, the lips, the pharynx, the larynx, the
salivary glands, the thyroid gland, the skin of the region, and the cervix.

In terms of prevalence, it is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. Seventy-five percent of cases are located in the mouth and pharynx, while the most common histological type is squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). For example, more specifically in Greece in 2012, 1,350 new cases were recorded, a figure that accounted for 3.3% of all new cancer diagnoses in the country.

Based on these percentages, 30% of cases occur in the tongue, 20% on the lip, 15% on the floor of the
mouth and in the larynx, and 10% in the pharynx.

Risk Factors

Understanding the factors that increase the risk is the first step towards prevention. Everyday habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, place a significant strain on the body. In particular, 70 per cent of those affected are long-term smokers, with current smokers facing a 300 per cent higher risk. When
smoking is combined with alcohol, the two have a negative synergistic effect, multiplying the likelihood of developing the disease. At the same time, in recent years there has been an increase in HPV-positive cancers, mainly of the pharynx, which often occur in younger people with no history of smoking or
alcohol consumption. Finally, it is worth noting that up to 25 per cent of cases are observed in patients who have never smoked and have no other known risk factors.

Suspicious lesions and symptoms

Delay in diagnosis is the most unfavourable prognostic factor. Conversely, 85–90 per cent of cases can be
cured if diagnosed at an early stage.

Suspected precancerous lesions

Particular care is required when identifying suspected precancerous lesions in the oral cavity. These
include leukoplakia, a white patch of unknown aetiology that does not flake off, in which, in 20–25 per
cent of cases, cancer or severe dysplasia is present. Even more dangerous is erythroplakia, where the rate
of co-occurrence with cancer or severe dysplasia reaches 90 per cent. At the same time, suspicious lesions
include punctate leukoplakia, as well as any chronic ulcer – that is, a sore that is not caused by any
obvious injury and remains unhealed for more than two weeks.

Symptoms requiring medical assessment

There are also certain suspicious symptoms that necessitate immediate assessment by a doctor. These include any unexplained swelling, lump or puffiness in the mouth or throat area, as well as persistent pain when chewing, swallowing or speaking, or pain that radiates to the ear. Furthermore, symptoms such as hoarseness, a change in the tone of the voice, and unexplained bleeding inside the mouth are signs that
should not be ignored.

Prevention and Screening
Screening is particularly important for people over the age of 45, smokers, people who drink alcohol, or
those with a history of HPV infection. Screening involves four simple steps:
1. Neck: Palpation of the lymph nodes and the thyroid gland.
2. Lips: External examination.
3. Mouth: Examination of the tongue, floor of the mouth, cheeks, gums and soft palate.
4. Pharynx: Examination of the tonsils, soft palate and base of the tongue.

The importance of early intervention

Despite advances in surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the 5-year survival rate remains at around 60 per cent. Furthermore, treatments for advanced-stage disease can affect patients’ quality of life, causing functional (difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing and breathing), aesthetic or psychological problems.

The Right to Be Forgotten: A New Era of Dignity for Cancer Survivors

Life after cancer should not be accompanied by lifelong financial exclusion

For many decades, completing cancer treatment did not always mean the end of obstacles for those who had been diagnosed with the disease. Years after their treatment, many survivors continued to face higher insurance premiums, denied insurance applications, and difficulties accessing financial services.A history of cancer could act as a permanent “stigma,” even many years after treatment had ended.

Thus, medical progress and a return to daily life were not always accompanied by corresponding social and economic rehabilitation.

With Law No. 5317/2026, published on July 10, 2026, Greece is moving forward with the legislative enshrinement of the so-called “Right to Be Forgotten” for cancer survivors, in the context of insurance contracts linked to consumer credit agreements. This specific provision is found in Article 16, paragraph 4, of the law.

What the new provision stipulates

The law prohibits the use of personal data related to a consumer’s cancer diagnosis when such data is to be used for an insurance contract linked to a credit agreement and five years have passed since the completion of treatment.

Simply put, once the five-year period has elapsed, a prior history of a cancer diagnosis cannot be used in this specific context as a factor in assessing the insurance contract accompanying the credit agreement. This represents a significant shift: individuals are no longer assessed indefinitely through the lens of a past
illness, but are given the opportunity to move forward with their lives without their previous diagnosis serving as a permanent obstacle.

The four key points of the new entitlement

The Right to be Forgotten does not mean that the diagnosis is deleted from the medical record. It means that, after the prescribed five-year period, data related to the cancer diagnosis may not be used for that specific insurance purpose.

Fourth, special oversight is provided for.

The Personal Data Protection Authority is responsible for enforcing paragraph 4 of Article 16 and possesses the supervisory and auditing powers provided for by the General Data Protection Regulation.

What the New Regulation Does Not Cover

Accurate information is particularly important so that citizens are aware of both their rights and the actual
limits of the protection provided.

The new legislative provision:

does not apply to all forms of private insurance,
does not automatically guarantee the approval of a loan or an insurance application,
does not cover credit agreements secured by a mortgage on real property,
does not cover credit intended for the purchase or retention of rights in real estate,

does not cover professional or business loans, as the law applies to consumers acting outside the
scope of their professional or business activities.

Furthermore, consumer credit agreements already in effect as of November 20, 2026, will, as a general rule, continue to be governed by the previous legal framework until their expiration.
Therefore, the new regulation represents a very important step, but it does not yet provide comprehensive coverage of all the financial and insurance needs of survivors.

From Voluntary Commitment to Legal Enshrinement

The Right to Be Forgotten did not first appear in Greece in 2026. As of March 26, 2024, the Code of Ethics of the Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies has been in effect, to which life insurance companies had adhered.

The Code applied to life insurance policies linked to mortgage, business, or consumer loans, with a maximum total insured amount of 300,000 euros. It provided for a ten-year period following the completion of treatment for those diagnosed as adults and a five-year period for those diagnosed before
turning 18.

The new legislation is particularly significant because protection is no longer based exclusively on the insurance industry’s voluntary commitment. For contracts falling within its scope, the failure to use the oncological diagnosis after the five-year period becomes a legal obligation.

At the same time, there is a need to clarify the relationship between the new law and the existing Code, particularly with regard to mortgage and business loans that are not subject to the new legislative provision.

Additional Safeguards for Consumers

Article 16 includes other important safeguards. When insurance is required for the granting of credit, the creditor must accept equivalent insurance coverage from an insurance company of the consumer’s choice. Choosing a different company must not result in less favorable credit terms.

At the same time, the consumer is given a period of at least three business days to compare insurance quotes, unless the consumer requests in writing that the contract be concluded earlier.

The European Dimension

The Greek regulation transposes Directive (EU) 2023/2225 on consumer credit agreements. The European
Directive requires Member States to establish a time limit beyond which data related to oncological
diagnoses may not be used for insurance policies linked to credit agreements. The European text stipulated that this period must not exceed fifteen years; Greece opted for the significantly shorter period of five years.

This choice has particular social significance. It recognizes that advances in oncology, increased survival rates, and people’s return to family, social, and professional life must be accompanied by corresponding
developments in the law.

When Does It Take Ef ect?

Although Law No. 5317/2026 has already been published, the provisions of Part A, which include the
Right to Be Forgotten, will take effect on November 20, 2026.
Until then, substantial preparation is required on the part of banks, insurance companies, and the relevant
authorities. Clear procedures, understandable information for citizens, appropriate staff training, and an
easily accessible mechanism for submitting reports or complaints are needed.

A Significant Achievement—Not the End of the Journey

The Right to Be Forgotten represents a significant institutional victory for dignity and equality. Cancer
should not be a lifelong social and economic stigma. A person’s medical history should not negate their
right to plan for the future, participate equally in society, and make a fresh start.
At the same time, the new regulation must be viewed as a starting point, not the culmination of our
efforts. The next step must be to extend meaningful protection to more insurance and financial products,
including housing needs, as well as to address the discrimination that continues to occur in the workplace
and other aspects of social life.
Scientific progress has transformed cancer from a terminal diagnosis into an experience of life and
survival for millions of people. Society and the law must follow suit.

Because the Right to Be Forgotten is not a privilege. It is every person’s right not to remain forever
trapped by a past diagnosis—and to move forward into the future without discrimination, without
stigma, and with dignity.

Find more : http://elib.aade.gr/elib/view?

DISABILITY CARD OR TRANSPORTATION PASS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 2026. WHAT BENEFICIARIES NEED TO KNOW.

The new explanatory circular regarding transportation for people with disabilities (PWDs) for 2026 has raised several questions among beneficiaries and their families who are trying to understand what the current rules are. The most common question is: “I have the plastic Disability Card. Do I also need to get a PWD Transportation Pass?” The answer is that the Disability Card has not completely replaced the Transportation Pass. Both of these documents remain valid simultaneously, and the need for one or the other depends on the mode of transportation used by each eligible person. To make this clearer, here’s what applies in each case.

Athens and Thessaloniki: The Disability Card can be used for urban travel

For travel on OASA transit in Athens and OSETH transit in Thessaloniki, the plastic Disability Card can be used by eligible beneficiaries.

Cardholders can travel by validating their card at the designated machines, without needing to obtain a separate Travel Pass specifically for these transit services.

The following are required:

the Disability Card must be valid,
must bear the designated disability level II or III designation,
or the beneficiary must receive disability financial assistance from OPEKA,
and income criteria must be met where required.

URBAN KTEL BUSES IN THE PROVINCE: THE TRAVEL PASS REMAINS NECESSARY

This is the point that has caused the most confusion. Possession of a Disability Card does not mean that the Travel Pass is no longer required for all trips.

For urban KTEL buses operated by the Regional Units, as well as by the municipalities of Kos and Rhodes, a Mobility Card for People with Disabilities is required, even if the beneficiary holds a Disability Card.

Therefore, those who use urban KTEL buses in their area should apply:

at the Citizen Service Centers (KEP),
or at the relevant offices of the Regional Unit.

FOR 2026, THE PROCESS BEGINS ON JULY 1, 2026, AND ENDS ON NOVEMBER 30, 2026.

Intercity Buses (KTEL): 50% Discount on Fares

For travel on intercity buses (KTEL)—that is, for trips from one city to another—a 50% discount is available.

The discount can be obtained with:

A valid Disability Card,
or a Transportation Pass for People with Disabilities.

Thus, for intercity routes, the beneficiary has more options.

Are there income criteria for free transportation?

One point that often causes confusion concerns income. There are no income criteria for issuing the Disability Card.

The income limits apply to eligibility for free transportation.

For 2026, the limits are as follows:

individual taxable income up to 23,000 euros,
declared family income up to 29,000 euros.

The family income limit increases by 5,600 euros for each additional person with a disability of 67% or higher who lives with and is financially dependent on the taxpayer.

It is important to note that: OPEKA disability benefits are not included in the above income limits. A relevant certificate from OPEKA may be required to exclude them.

Who is exempt from the income criteria?

People who are totally blind are exempt from the income criteria.

What applies to the companion?

In many cases, a companion is also entitled to travel.

If the Disability Card is marked with an “S” (Companion):

in Athens and Thessaloniki, the companion travels with the cardholder upon a single validation of the card. For KTEL buses, however, the prescribed procedure and the corresponding Companion Travel Pass are required where necessary.

So, what do beneficiaries need to keep?

The Disability Card is a significant benefit, but it does not mean that the Travel Pass is being eliminated.

In simple terms:

Disability Card:

✔ Athens and Thessaloniki

✔ Intercity KTEL buses for a 50% discount

Travel Pass:

✔ Provincial KTEL buses

✔ Situations where a companion’s entitlement is required

✔ Those who do not have a Disability Card

At Kapa3, we believe that accurate information can save time, trips, and unnecessary hassle, especially for people who already face increased challenges due to a disability or a serious illness.

View the circular here: TRANSPORTATION 2026

DISABILITY CIRCULAR

For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact the Kapa3 team:

📍Athens: 13 Kosti Palama, 3rd floor, (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

📍13 Kosti Palama, 11141 Athens

☎️210 5221424

📱6906265170

www.kapa3.gr

info@kapa3.gr

Disability Card: Everything KAPA3 beneficiaries need to know about its use and their rights

The Cancer Patient Guidance Center (KAPA3) informs beneficiaries and their caregivers about Clarification Circular No. 12757 issued by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family. This circular clarifies the framework for the operation, recognition, and mandatory acceptance of the Disability Card by all relevant agencies.

The Disability Card is the official government document that verifies the holder’s identity and status as a person with a disability. The primary purpose of issuing the card is to protect sensitive personal data, as it does not contain any information regarding the nature of the condition or disability.

Below is a detailed summary of all provisions under the law:

Obligations of Entities and Rights to Service

Mandatory Acceptance: The Card must be accepted by all public and private sector entities, as well as by individuals and legal entities

Priority Service: All entities are required to give priority service to Cardholders in procedures requiring in-person presence and to provide accessibility accommodations.

The Three Forms of the Card (Equal Evidential Value)

Customer service staff are required to accept the Disability Card in whichever of the following forms the citizen chooses.

Printed form: A document with a digital signature from the online portal karta.epan.gov.gr.

Digital form: Via the Gov.gr Wallet app on a mobile device.

Plastic card: A printed form with a standardized design.

Disability Levels and Right to an Attendant

The Card indicates the total disability percentage across three levels, in order to grant the corresponding rights:

Level I: Disability of 50%–66%.

Level II: Disability of 67%–79%.

Level III: Disability of 80% or higher.

“S” Marking (Right to a Companion): If the Card bears the “S” marking, all benefits, rights, and accommodations provided to the cardholder automatically extend to their companion during the period of accompaniment.

What is the status of existing disability certificates?

Please note that disability certificates issued by the competent health committees (KEPAs, ASYE, etc.) remain valid as usual. Citizens who present these certificates instead of the Disability Card will be served as usual in accordance with the provisions applicable to each benefit.

The KAPA3 team stands firmly by patients and caregivers to provide guidance and ensure their rights are protected. For any information or support regarding the use of the Disability Card, please contact us.