Historic progression in Greece as patients now require prescription for antibiotics

·

Greece has joined Australia and a host of European countries by putting in place a law that requires Greeks to have a prescription before purchasing any antibiotics.

The provision, passed by the Ministry of Health passed in February, came into place on Thursday in Greece, with the Panhellenic Medical Association (PIS) describing it as “a win” of the medical world which took about 50 years to implement.

PIS said the law requiring a doctor’s prescription for the sale of drugs has existed since 1973, but it was often ignored.

Minister of Health Vassilis Kikilias. Photo: ANA-MPA

The antibiotic prescriptions are now required by law to be processed electronically, stating the specific disease for which it is necessary to administer the drug as well as the dosage.

In exceptional cases where it is not possible to issue an electronic prescription, the handwritten prescription must contain all the details of the electronic prescription and especially the disease for which the administration of the specific is deemed necessary.

The provision was planned to be introduced in February, according to the Minister of Health Vassilis Kikilias, yet was delayed due the coronavirus pandemic.

According to an OECD report of 2017, Greece was the biggest consumer of antibiotics, with the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), also declaring that Greece uses double the amount of antibiotics in relation to the EU average.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

A postcard brought to life: Billy Cotsis explores the soul of Patmos

There is something about the freedom of being out on the Aegean. One can visit small islands, more populated islands, deserted beaches or simply go fishing.

From tragedy to triumph: Christina Vithoulkas becomes Australia’s first female para drifter

Vithoulkas never lost her love for extreme sports. Now 30, she has found the same thrill in drifting—a motorsport where cars slide sideways.

Program of the 11th International Summer University in Boston announced

The 11th International Summer University "Greek Language, Culture and Media" will take place from May 24-29 in Boston.

Hellenic Writer’s Association of Australia hold student literary competition

The Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia has announced its annual Student Literary Competition, titled “From Greece to the World”.

Athens university develops first tool to measure TikTok addiction

A research team from the University of Athens has created the world’s first tool specifically designed to assess addiction to TikTok.

You May Also Like

George Ellis on orchestrating the music for the NRL Grand Final entertainment

Legendary Greek conductor, George Ellis, shares his thoughts on orchestrating the music for the NRL Grand Final entertainment.

How to give back in Australia this Christmas season

The Greek Herald has made a list of how you can help those in need this Christmas, by supporting charities and donating to their initiatives.

Remote archeological site in Crete reveals ancient Roman amphitheatre

Archeologists working in a remote part of Crete have discovered an ancient Roman odeon that they think would have been used for events.