Question to the Minister of Health Adonis Georgiadis on “Cry of anguish from thousands of cancer patients for their insufficient palliative care – Up to 1,000 euros are asked to pay for morphine“, they testified twenty one MPs of SYRIZA-PS on his initiative Member of Parliament for Achaia and Head of Health Andreas Panagiotopoulos.
The extremely important issue is raised in the content of the question of the non-application of n. 5007/2022, which regulates the palliative care delivery systemand more specifically in article 81 it is expressly defined that “the narcotic drugs of the state monopoly, morphine and pethidine, when prescribed for outpatient use and dispensed by private pharmacies, are reimbursed by insurance organizations, without patient participation».
The consequence of this government choice is the exorbitant and prohibitive burden on oncology patients with low or no incomes. That is, thousands of cancer patients with a major flare-up of pain are deprived of the vitally necessary aqueous solution of morphine, because they have no money to pay for it out of their own pocket.
Finally, the issue of the availability of the medicine in question is emphasized, since its distribution, due to the state monopoly, is done in only three state pharmacies, in Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion, which makes it difficult to procure and receive it from patients.
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**Interview with Andreas Panagiotopoulos, MP for Achaia and Head of Health**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Mr. Panagiotopoulos. Recently, you, along with twenty of your colleagues from SYRIZA-PS, raised a critical question to Minister of Health Adonis Georgiadis about the plight of cancer patients struggling with access to palliative care. Can you elaborate on the key issues you brought up?
**Andreas Panagiotopoulos:** Certainly. The fundamental issue revolves around the non-application of law 5007/2022, particularly regarding the provision of morphine and other essential narcotic drugs for outpatient use. The law clearly states that these medications should be reimbursed fully by insurance organizations, yet many patients are still being charged exorbitant amounts—up to 1,000 euros—just to access morphine. This is unconscionable for those battling cancer, particularly when many have limited or no income.
**Interviewer:** That’s a dire situation indeed. Beyond the financial burden, you’ve pointed out the logistical challenges surrounding the availability of morphine. Can you share more about that?
**Andreas Panagiotopoulos:** Yes, the distribution of morphine is severely restricted due to its classification under a state monopoly. Currently, it’s only available at three state pharmacies located in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion. This creates significant barriers for patients, especially those living far from these cities, making it nearly impossible for them to access this life-saving medication when they need it most.
**Interviewer:** Given these challenges, what do you believe should be done to address this crisis?
**Andreas Panagiotopoulos:** First and foremost, there needs to be a thorough review and immediate implementation of the existing law to ensure that all patients can access necessary palliative care without financial strain. Additionally, expanding the distribution network to include more pharmacies across the country is crucial for timely access.
**Interviewer:** As a final thought, what would you say to our readers who may have differing views on the healthcare system’s responsibility in providing access to these medications? Should there be a debate on how we prioritize healthcare funding and patient needs?
**Andreas Panagiotopoulos:** Absolutely. I believe this is an urgent topic that should provoke discussion. Health is a fundamental human right, and we must consider how well our system serves those most in need. Readers might question whether our government is adequately prioritizing healthcare funding, especially in life-threatening situations. It’s essential that we engage in a transparent dialogue about potential reforms to ensure no patient is deprived of the critical care they need.
