Cancer Care Connect by Kapa3 Archives - Page 2 of 3

Kapa3 Report for the First Half of 2026

As the first half of 2026 draws to a close, the Cancer Patient Guidance Center (Kapa3) continues to systematically expand its reach, thereby strengthening the system of care and information for both cancer patients and their caregivers.

During the first half of the year, the organization implemented a series of high-level initiatives and forged partnerships at both the national and European levels, thereby solidifying its position.

The organization’s activities got off to a strong start in January with the welcome of its European partners in the MELODIC Consortium project at a productive two-day workshop (January 19–20), hosted by the School of Public Health at the University of West Attica.

In early February, on the occasion of World Cancer Day, Kapa3 played an active role as a partner of René Descartes College in the webinar “Cancer, Patient Navigation & Health Management: From Prevention to Life Coordination.”

At the same time, significant initiatives were carried out in the local community, such as the “Knowledge Workshop in Megara—From Prevention to Life Coordination,” held on February 8 in collaboration with the Municipality of Megara.

In the area of scientific programs, the Cancer Patient Guidance Center, in collaboration with the Laboratory of Basic Health Sciences (EBEY) of the Department of Nursing at the University of the Peloponnese (PA.PEL), launched a series of online meetings running from February through June, focusing on mental health and nutrition.

The month concluded with the organization’s participation in the international conference “Mapping the Unknown in Oncology – From Hospitals to Homes, Mapping the Future of Oncology Care,” held on February 27 and 28.

March marked a strengthening of Kapa3’s “digital presence” with its official membership in the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC), a strategic move aimed at linking healthcare with technological advancements. As an extension of this collaboration, the organization participated in a closed-door members’ meeting as part of Athens Digital Health Week 2026.

On March 11, representatives of the organization attended the diaNEOsis event “Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence” at the Lighthouse of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, while in the middle of the month, Kapa 3 played a prominent role in the scientific conference “Cancer in 2026: Challenges and Disruptions.” Furthermore, on March 19–20, the organization was represented at the 6th Western Macedonia Nursing Conference on the theme “Innovation and Empathy: Balancing Technology with Human Contact in Nursing.”

In parallel, the organization’s co-founder, Ms. Evangelia Bista, gave an interview on the show “All About Health” on Dion TV—which covered a variety of topics related to health, nutrition, autoimmune diseases, and more—the implementation of the free, 8-week Melodic pilot educational program began.

Kapa3’s scientific credibility was reaffirmed by the publication of the research paper “Person-First or Disease-First? Language Choices in Cancer Communication” in the journal *Nursing Reports*, as well as by Kapa3’s participation in the European project associated with Melodic, titled: “Educational Needs Regarding Mental Health of Professionals Working with Young Adults with Cancer: A European Survey,” which was also published; the organization also participated in the MELODIC Online Symposium 2026 on April 24, contributing to the dissemination of results in Greece.

May was marked by a strong outward focus and new collaborations, as the organization joined the European program Service Learning 2: 0:CoLab, was selected as one of six nonprofit organizations to receive financial support from the Alpha Bank-Match For Good initiative, and began its collaboration with the USTEP INSTITUTE.

At the same time, an awareness campaign was held in Soufli to highlight Kapa3’s activities; Ms. Bista gave an interview to iatronet.gr, and representatives of the organization participated in an international conference at the Medical School of the University of Coimbra in Portugal

Within the organization, the new Psychological Support team was established with great enthusiasm, while on the social media front, the Kapa3 team won six medals at the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Swim.

As the semester came to a close, June began with the signing of an official cooperation agreement with the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of West Attica, while partnerships were solidified with the non-profit organization “Karkinaki” and the PRAXI Network of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) to strengthen international networking and access to modern funding tools.

Having completed five years of uninterrupted service in supporting cancer patients through digital guidance, Kapa 3 is entering a new era with the development of the innovative “Myrto” project. This is a pioneering Social Artificial Intelligence (Social AI) initiative in the field of care for cancer patients in Greece. “Myrto” will function as an advanced digital health and rights navigator (Patient Empowerment e-Navigator) for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals—a project for which the strategic partnership with SimasiaAi for its co-development was crucial. Finally, the first closed workshop of the MYRTO Al Health Innovation Lab was held for the “Myrto” application, with the support of René Descartes College.

The results of this first half-year clearly demonstrate that Kapa 3 serves as a link connecting innovation, scientific research, and the digital age in the field of oncology care. By combining academic knowledge, European partnerships, and technological development, Kappa 3 transforms every challenge into sustainable, people-centered solutions. Partnerships with leading organizations, investors, and partners who share the same values of social responsibility are also essential to realizing this vision, ensuring that every patient has immediate, reliable, and equitable access to healthcare and their rights.

The KAPA3 team stands steadfastly by patients and caregivers to provide guidance and safeguard their rights. For any information or support, please feel free to contact us.

You can contact the KAPA3 team

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Phone Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: info@kapa3.gr

July: Global Sarcoma Awareness Month

July has been established internationally as Sarcoma Awareness Month, a rare but particularly important group of cancers that often remains unknown to the general public. Raising awareness about sarcomas is not just about learning about a rare disease; it is about the early recognition of symptoms, access to specialized care, support for patients and their families, and the need to ensure that no one is left alone to face a difficult diagnosis.

Sarcomas are malignant tumors that develop in the tissues that support, connect, or surround organs and body parts. They can occur in muscles, fat, tendons, blood vessels, nerves, connective tissues, tissues surrounding the joints, and bones. They can occur almost anywhere in the body, with the most common sites being the extremities, the trunk, the abdomen, and the retroperitoneal space.

Despite their rarity, sarcomas are of particular importance. They account for approximately 1% of cancers in adults, while in children and adolescents the percentage is proportionally higher, reaching about 15–20% of pediatric malignancies. It is, therefore, a disease that can affect all age groups and requires increased vigilance on the part of both the general public and healthcare professionals.

One of the key characteristics of sarcomas is that, in the early stages, they may not cause severe pain or obvious symptoms. They are often noticed as a painless lump, a swelling that grows, persistent swelling, or pain that does not subside and cannot be explained by an injury. When a sarcoma develops deeper within the body—for example, in the abdomen or chest—it may go unnoticed for a longer period of time and only cause symptoms once it grows in size or presses on nearby organs, nerves, muscles, or blood vessels.

Symptoms that warrant medical evaluation include a new or growing lump, pain in bone or soft tissue, difficulty moving, persistent swelling, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, or gastrointestinal symptoms when the tumor is located internally. These symptoms do not necessarily indicate the presence of a sarcoma, but when they persist or worsen, they should not be ignored.

The diagnosis of sarcoma requires a specialized medical approach. It typically involves a clinical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan, and confirmation via biopsy. It is particularly important that the biopsy and evaluation of the sample be performed according to a proper protocol by a team with experience in sarcomas, as the accurate diagnosis of the subtype, grade, and stage of the disease has a decisive impact on the treatment strategy.

Treatment is personalized and depends on the type of sarcoma, its location, size, grade, stage, the patient’s age, and overall health. It may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or a combination of these. Modern oncological care places particular emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration so that the patient is treated holistically rather than in a fragmented manner.

Early diagnosis, referral to specialized centers, and collaboration among different medical specialties can significantly contribute to the best possible management of the disease and the maintenance of quality of life. Advances in medicine, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, molecular diagnostics, and targeted therapies are creating new possibilities for many patients, while participation in research and clinical trials remains crucial for improving treatment options.

However, managing sarcoma is not merely a medical issue. A diagnosis of a rare cancer is often accompanied by uncertainty, delays, difficulty accessing specialized information, financial burden, psychological stress, and the need for guidance within a complex health and social protection system. For this reason, information, social support, psychosocial empowerment, and access to patients’ rights are critical components of comprehensive care.

The Cancer Patient Guidance Center – Kapa3, through its information, social guidance, and support services, stands by people affected by cancer and their families. Kapa3’s collaboration with the Hellenic Sarcoma Patients Association – Sarcoma Fighters reinforces this effort, highlighting the importance of networking, accurate information, patient advocacy, and collective action.

With the central message that no one should feel alone in the face of sarcoma, July provides an opportunity to talk more about a rare disease that needs visibility. To learn. To pay attention to our bodies. To seek medical advice when something persists. To support those who are ill. To participate in information and awareness campaigns. To promote access to early diagnosis, specialized treatment, and compassionate care.

Knowledge is no substitute for medical advice, but it can be the first step toward taking action. And when knowledge is combined with solidarity, cooperation, and access to care, it can fundamentally change a patient’s journey.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for anything you may need.

The KAPA3 team stands firmly by patients and caregivers to provide guidance and ensure their rights are protected. For any information or support, please feel free to contact us.You can contact the KAPA3 team.

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Phone Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: info@kapa3.gr

Information about the actions of Kapa3 in Soufli. An initiative of the Branch and the Social Service of the Municipality of Soufli

On Friday, May 29, 2026, a working meeting was held at the offices of the Evros Branch of the Hellenic Anti-Cancer Society in Soufli, at the initiative of the Branch and the Social Service of the Municipality of Soufli, with the aim of strengthening the support of oncology patients and the cooperation between local bodies.

The meeting was attended by the President of the Evros Branch of the Hellenic Anti-Cancer Society, Ms. Theodora Rokka, the Head of the Social Service of the Municipality of Soufli, Mr. Marinos Mantziaras, Ms. Aristea Archontidou from KAPA3, social workers of the Municipality of Soufli, as well as health professionals of the Soufli Health Center.

Particularly important was the presence of Ms. Kalliopi Kafetzaki, a social worker at the Day Center for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults with Neoplastic Diseases of the Hellenic Anti-Cancer Society, who presented the services of the Day Center and the hostel in Athens, as well as the challenges faced by oncology patients in the region.

The actions of KAPA3 were also presented, while information was provided on digital tools that can facilitate citizens’ access to health services, such as the Health Insurance Fund, the National Health Insurance Fund and the myHealth application. At the same time, the development of “Myrto”, a digital assistant that will support patients, caregivers and health professionals in searching for information and services, was discussed. During the discussion, issues related to inequalities in access to health services in the region, as well as the difficulties that patients encounter in administrative procedures and social benefits, were highlighted.

The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to continue cooperation and develop initiatives that will strengthen the support of oncology patients and their families in the Evros region. We are particularly happy about the presence of Kappa3 throughout Greece and for the trust of social services in our Organization. We remain faithful to the vision and mission of the Organization. For anything you need, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Kappa3 team is constantly by the patients and caregivers’ side to guide and ensure their rights. For any information or support, you can contact us.

You can contact the Kapa3 team at 13 Kostis Palamas, 3rd floor (Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00). Contact numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170. Email: info@kapa3.gr

Ηλικία, φύλο και ανοσοποιητικό σύστημα τα στοιχεία που αυξάνουν τον κίνδυνο θανάτου από covid19

Cancer Immunotherapy: A Revolution That Continues to Transform Cancer Care

Over the past fifteen years, cancer immunotherapy has transformed the landscape of oncology, offering new hope and treatment possibilities to patients around the world. What began as a promising scientific concept has evolved into one of the most important pillars of modern cancer treatment.

According to the Cancer Immunotherapy Insights & Impact Report 2026 published by the Cancer Research Institute, a total of 156 immunotherapy approvals were granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2011 and 2025, reflecting the remarkable growth and impact of this field. Many of these therapies are based on immune checkpoint inhibitors, which help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Unlike traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, immunotherapy works by empowering the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. By enhancing natural immune responses, these therapies can help the body identify and destroy cancer cells that might otherwise evade detection. For many patients, immunotherapy has led to longer survival, improved disease control, and a better quality of life.

The year 2025 marked another milestone in the advancement of cancer immunotherapy, with thirteen new FDA approvals. Notably, patients with anal cancer gained access to their first approved immunotherapy option, highlighting the expanding reach of these innovative treatments. New methods of administration, including subcutaneous therapies, are also making treatment more convenient and accessible for patients.

Research in cancer immunotherapy continues to progress at an extraordinary pace. Scientists are developing new strategies to overcome the mechanisms that allow cancer to hide from the immune system, while exploring novel therapeutic targets, combination treatments, and personalized approaches to care. These advances aim to increase the number of patients who can benefit from immunotherapy and improve outcomes across a wider range of cancers.

While challenges remain and not all patients respond equally to treatment, immunotherapy represents one of the most significant breakthroughs in the history of cancer care. Ongoing scientific innovation continues to bring hope that more effective, personalized, and accessible treatments will become available in the years ahead.

At KAPA3, we recognize the importance of raising awareness about advances in cancer treatment and supporting informed decision-making. Knowledge empowers patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, helping them navigate the cancer journey with greater confidence and hope.

Source: https://www.cancerresearch.org/cancer-immunotherapy-report-2026

Memorandum of Understanding between the University of West Attica—specifically the Department of Occupational Therapy—and the NGO KAPA3.

On Tuesday, June 9, a meeting was held to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of West Attica—specifically the Department of Occupational Therapy—and the NGO KAPA3.

The meeting was attended by the Rector of the University of West Attica, Panagiotis Kaldis Penelope Vlotinou, Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy Evangelia Bista, co-founder of the organization, as well as representatives from both organizations, including the interdisciplinary team of KAPA3: Despoina Chrysostomou, Psychologist Katerina Georgiopoulou, Social Worker Yiannis Kontogiorgis, Psychologist, and Eleftheria-Irini Polyzoti, an intern from the Department of Social and Educational Policy, as well as students from the Occupational Therapy Department.

During the meeting, a constructive discussion took place regarding the prospects for cooperation between the two organizations, with the aim of developing joint actions and initiatives that will contribute to strengthening education, research, social contribution, and the connection between the academic community and society.

In this context, it was decided in April to jointly organize a major scientific conference, which will focus on an interdisciplinary and holistic approach to health, on combating social inequalities in healthcare, as well as on the management of chronic disease. The aim of this initiative is to raise community awareness, facilitate the exchange of expertise among professionals and scientific bodies, and disseminate scientific knowledge and information to the general public.

Special mention was made of the innovative work of KAPA3, the digital Health Navigator “Myrto,” a modern artificial intelligence tool currently under development and designed to support cancer patients, their families, and their caregivers. “Myrto” will function as a digital assistant (Chatbot) and Health and Rights Navigator, providing immediate, reliable, and personalized information on health, social welfare, rights, benefits, and available support services. The project aims to empower patients, improve their access to information, and reduce inequalities in health and social care through the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence applications. The development of “Myrtos” represents a pioneering application of social artificial intelligence in the field of oncology care in Greece and is part of KAPA3’s strategy to promote innovation, accessibility, and the active participation of patients in managing their own health.

The meeting concluded in a particularly positive atmosphere of mutual appreciation and recognition. In this context, the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of West Attica made a symbolic gesture toward the representative of KAPA3, Evangelia Bista, presenting her with a commemorative gift as a token of appreciation for her many years of valuable social contribution in the field of support for cancer patients. At the same time, as a gesture of hospitality and appreciation, the team was offered a specially produced wine, which is an original creation of the University of West Attica.

There is an urgent need for psychological support for cancer patients. The KAPA3 team explains and advocates for this

There is an urgent need for psychological support for cancer patients. The KAPA3 team explains and advocates for this

Every day, healthcare professionals are called upon to communicate with, assess, and, above all, support people who are going through cancer.

Does cancer affect only physical health, or does it also have a profound impact on a person’s psychological, social, and emotional life? The needs that arise during the course of the illness are many and are often accompanied by the question: “What does the disease really bring to a person’s life?” A cancer diagnosis brings about significant changes in daily life, relationships, social roles, and the way a person perceives themselves and their future.

A cancer diagnosis is an extremely stressful event, often accompanied by feelings of fear, uncertainty, anxiety, and grief. At the same time, patients are called upon to cope with the effects of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Changes in physical appearance, fatigue, pain, and limitations in daily functioning can significantly affect their self-esteem and quality of life (Pitman et al., 2018).

Uncertainty regarding the course of the disease and the likelihood of relapse are significant sources of psychological distress. The extent of this phenomenon is reflected in the meta-analysis by Mitchell et al. (2011), which included 94 studies and more than 14,000 cancer patients. According to the results, 16.3% of patients met the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder, 10.3% for anxiety disorder, and 19.2% for adjustment disorder.

These data highlight that a significant proportion of cancer patients experience severe psychological distress, a fact that underscores the need for specialized psychological support.

Furthermore, cancer often affects an individual’s family and social relationships. The patient may be forced to limit or abandon professional and social roles, while the family is called upon to adapt to new demands and responsibilities, experiencing significant psychological strain of their own (Northouse et al., 2010).

Cancer patients have an increased need for psychological support, as the disease significantly affects their psychological, social, and emotional functioning. Fear of the disease’s progression, uncertainty about the future, the side effects of treatments, and the possibility of recurrence are major sources of psychological distress. At the same time, the experience of cancer is often accompanied by feelings of loss of control, fear, and emotional distress. The contemporary psycho-oncology literature recognizes that the early identification of psychosocial needs and the provision of appropriate interventions are an integral part of holistic oncology care (Caruso & Breitbart, 2020; Mehnert-Theuerkauf et al., 2023).

Within this context, psychological support is a key component of holistic care for cancer patients. Holistic care refers to a comprehensive approach that takes into account not only the patient’s physical needs but also the psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of their health. Counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups provide a safe space for expressing emotions and building psychological resilience (National Comprehensive Cancer Network [NCCN], 2024).

At the same time, they help improve adherence to treatment, strengthen cooperation with healthcare professionals, and maintain quality of life. As Holland and Weiss (2008) argue, psychosocial care is an integral part of high-quality oncology care, from diagnosis through the survival phase.

In conclusion, the experience of cancer is a complex and multidimensional process that affects every aspect of a person’s life. Managing the disease is not limited solely to physical treatment but requires the recognition and addressing of the psychological and social needs that arise at every stage. Providing timely and systematic psychological support can empower the patient, improve their ability to adapt to the demands of treatment, and contribute significantly to maintaining their dignity, hope, and quality of life. Psychological care should be regarded as a fundamental right of every cancer patient and as an integral part of modern oncology practice.

Coordination of Psychological and Social Services within the Framework of Psychosocial Care

The care of cancer patients is not limited to treating the disease and its physical effects. The needs that arise during treatment are often multifaceted and concern both the individual’s psychological well-being and practical, social, or financial issues that affect their daily life.

For this reason, effective support requires close collaboration among different healthcare professionals within a shared framework of psychosocial care. Within this framework, the Social Services and Psychological Services operate in a complementary manner, with the shared goal of enhancing the individual’s quality of life and overall adjustment to the experience of illness.

A client’s contact with the service can begin either through the Social Services Department or the Psychological Services Department. During the initial contact, an assessment of the client’s needs is conducted, and information is provided about all available support services.

Regardless of the initial request, the beneficiary is informed about the option of receiving psychological support, as the experience of cancer is often accompanied by heightened psycho-emotional needs that are not always apparent from the first contact. With their consent, an internal referral can be made to the Psychological Services Department for further evaluation and support.

The Psychological Services Department is responsible for the initial assessment, obtaining informed consent, and creating an individual support file. A structured series of sessions is then provided, tailored to the beneficiary’s needs. During this process, issues may arise related to social benefits, employment challenges, financial burdens, disability certification procedures, or other practical needs that significantly impact the daily functioning of the individual and their family. In such cases, and always with the beneficiary’s consent, cooperation with Social Services is initiated, and Social Services assumes responsibility for managing the relevant social and administrative matters.

The collaboration between the two services enables the timely identification of new needs and ensures continuity of care. Social Services focuses on the practical, social, and administrative aspects of support, while Psychological Services focuses on psychological resilience, emotional processing of the experience of the disease, and adaptation to the changes it brings about. The collaboration between the two services allows for a more comprehensive response to the needs of the cancer patient. In this way, a unified framework of psychosocial care is established that provides substantial support to the patient and their support network at all stages of their journey with the disease.

At the same time, regular communication and coordination between the two services allow for the timely identification of new needs and ensure continuity of care. The Social Services Department focuses on the practical, social, and administrative aspects of support, while the Psychological Services Department focuses on psychological resilience, emotional processing of the experience of the disease, and adaptation to the changes it brings about. The collaboration between the two services enables a more comprehensive response to the needs of cancer patients. In this way, a unified framework of psychosocial care is established that provides substantial support to the patient and their support network at all stages of their journey with the disease.

Kapa3 – Cancer Patient Guidance Center

Together, with knowledge, care, and a human touch.

https://www.kapa3.gr/epikoinonia/ by typing “Psychological Support” in the Message box

OR CALL

2105221424 – info@kapa3.gr

Athens: 13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor, (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) 6982003282

Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership

The Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership, aimed at providing meaningful support to cancer patients and promoting equal opportunities in scientific, social, and educational levels.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed in Athens on May 26, 2026, by Evangelia Bista, Co-founder and Head of Development and Operations at Kapa3, and Vasileios Stavrou, Co-founder and Scientific Director of the USTEP Institute.

As part of the collaboration, the two organizations will develop joint initiatives that include:

Organizing workshops and conferences focused on patient education, improving the quality of care, and strengthening the relationship of trust between patients and healthcare professionals.

The implementation of information and awareness campaigns on prevention, symptom management, and combating myths and social stigma surrounding cancer.

Collaboration on national and European programs aimed at developing innovative initiatives and actions with a social impact.

Conducting joint research and disseminating the results at the national and European levels.

This partnership reaffirms the two organizations’ commitment to actively contribute to the creation of a more supportive and inclusive environment for people living with cancer, by enhancing access to knowledge, information, and social empowerment.

The Memorandum of Cooperation is valid for one year, with the option to renew upon mutual written agreement by both parties.

Confirmation of AMKA for Child and Parent

A major institutional development is set to simplify the lives of cancer patients and their families by eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. The new ministerial decision introduces digital proof of kinship for the dispensing of High-Cost Medications (FCM). The Kapa3 team presents a detailed overview of all the changes affecting insured individuals’ daily access to their essential treatments.

A Digital Leap Toward Equal Access to Care

The new decision provides for the launch of the specialized online service “AMKA Verification for Child-Parent.” This service is directly integrated into the “PLATFORM FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF PHARMACY-ISSUE MEDICATIONS BY PRIVATE PHARMACIES/EOPYY PHARMACIES” information system.

For the people Kapa3 serves every day, this development translates into an immediate reduction in bureaucracy and hassle. From now on, the verification of family relationships will be performed automatically, ensuring that vulnerable groups and their caregivers do not waste valuable time waiting for approval of their necessary treatment regimens.

This upgrade is a matter of respect and dignity for the patient who is fighting their own battle. At Kapa3, we continue to stand by every cancer patient and their family, ensuring that information and care reach those who truly need them—quickly and easily. Because when it comes to health, every minute we gain is precious.

What’s Changing in Patients’ Daily Lives

Until now, in order to obtain approval for the dispensing or delivery of an expensive medication for a child or dependent, it was often necessary to submit additional documents (such as family status certificates) or in-person verification of the parent-child relationship.

What sets Decision 3 of this Government Gazette apart is the following:

Automatic Data Matching: It digitally connects information systems in real time. The EOPYY platform now automatically “reads” the relationship between a parent’s and child’s AMKA numbers through the Interoperability Center.

Immediate Approval of Requests: The parent or close relative logs into the digital “FYK DISPENSATION PLATFORM” using their own credentials and can submit the request immediately, without the process being held up due to a lack of the child’s identification.

Flexibility in Pickup: It facilitates faster scheduling of appointments at EOPYY pharmacies or pickup from private pharmacies, dramatically reducing wait times for vulnerable patients

Reducing bureaucracy is not merely a digital upgrade; it is a matter of respect and dignity for the patient who is fighting their own battle. At Kapa3, we continue to stand by every cancer patient and their family, ensuring that information and care reach those who truly need them—quickly and easily. Because when it comes to health, every minute we save is

New Joint Ministerial Decision on the 2026 Aerotherapy Allowance: A Detailed Guide for KAPA3 Beneficiaries

At the Cancer Patient Guidance Center—KAPA3, we remain committed to providing accurate and timely information to cancer patients and their families regarding the rights and social benefits to which they are entitled. With the aim of making your daily life easier and ensuring you have full access to beneficial legislative provisions, we present a comprehensive guide to the granting of the air therapy allowance, in accordance with the recent Joint Ministerial Decision (No. 89399 EX 2026) published in the Government Gazette, Issue B, No. 3295, dated June 11, 2026.

The air therapy allowance applies to the summer season of 2026.

The amount is set at 250.00 euros and will be paid as a lump sum to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts on July 10, 2026.

The amount is unseizable and fully exempt from any tax or withholding.

Who Are the Beneficiaries

The benefit is granted to disabled retirees of the State and the e-EFKA. Specifically, beneficiaries are those who fall into the following categories:

a) Pensioners referred to in subparagraphs (a) and (b) of paragraph 1 of Article 6 of Legislative Decree 4605/1966.

b) Pensioners under subparagraph (c) of the aforementioned paragraph 1 of Article 6 of Legislative Decree 4605/1966, who, according to

the opinion of the competent Health Committee for the years 2020 through 2026, have been deemed to be in need of this allowance and belong to the following categories of retirees:

Disabled officers under Law No. 2588/1921 and Law No. 875/1979 on military retirement.
Disabled officers under Law No. 362/1943.

iii. Disabled enlisted personnel under Article 1 of Legislative Decree 1044/1971, as amended by Article 1 of

Law 1043/1980.

Disabled members of the former Municipal Police who were subject to Legislative Decree 330/1947.

Disabled members of the Security Forces under Law 1579/1950 and those disabled members of the Coast Guard,

the Fire Department, and the Agricultural Police who are treated as equivalent to them.

Disabled members of the National Resistance under Provisional Act 1855/1951, Legislative Decree 412/1970, and Law 1543/1985.

vii. Persons with disabilities under Law 1370/1944 (who sustained their disabilities during peacetime while in service and as a result thereof, and

receive a disability pension).

viii. Persons with disabilities from the anti-dictatorship struggle under Law 1543/1985.

Disabled civilians under Law 812/1943.

Disabled civilians under Law 1863/1989.

c) Civilian retirees who sustained disabilities as a result of their service (Decision of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security No.

754.6/117/3912/March 24, 1969) and

d) OSE retirees who left the service and are receiving a pension due to tuberculosis.

3. Who Is Exempt from Payment

According to the Government Gazette, the following categories are not eligible for the air therapy allowance:

Recipients of other benefits: Those who have received or are set to receive a corresponding air therapy allowance from any other source (such as public entities, private entities, public benefit organizations, etc.).

Spa Therapy Beneficiaries: Those who have been deemed eligible for spa therapy for the year 2026 by the Directorate for Reserve Combatants, Veterans, War Victims, and War Disabled (DEPATHA).

New Pensioners: Citizens whose pension is payable after September 30, 2026, or whose order for registration in the Pensioner Registers is issued after October 31, 2026.

What to Do in Case of Non-Payment

If you are eligible but the benefit does not appear in your account by the scheduled date of July 10, 2026, the law entitles you to file a retroactive claim.

You may submit a request by December 31, 2026, at the latest, to the following agencies (depending on your category):

To Section E of the Income Policy Directorate of the General Accounting Office (p. 2) .

To the General Directorate of Public Sector Pensions of e-EFKA (p. 2).

You can contact the Kapa3 team

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Contact Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: 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.