A recent parliamentary debate saw opposition parties SYRIZA and PASOK challenge the constitutionality of Article 65 in a mental health reform bill by the conservative government. This article allows for the reinforcement of the National Health System by involving private doctors, with penalties for those who refuse to support the system.
SYRIZA’s MP Andreas Panagiotopoulos criticized the article, calling it “unreasonable, unconstitutional, and a violation of medical ethics.” PASOK also contested its legality, labeling it “politically misguided and legally flawed.” The New Left, a group from SYRIZA, supported the challenge.
In response to the bill, the public hospital workers’ union called a strike, and a protest rally was held in front of Parliament. This debate highlights the ongoing discussions and tensions surrounding healthcare reforms in Greece.