Greece

The National Action Plan for Public Health (2021–2025) in Greece is a strategic initiative aiming to address key health challenges and align the nation’s health outcomes with European standards. Developed under the principle of “Health in All Policies,” the plan emphasizes prevention, equity, and intersectoral collaboration to improve the population’s health and well-being. The plan has prioritized risk factor mitigation, such as smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity, which contribute significantly to Greece’s high rates of chronic diseases. Significant progress has been made in smoking cessation programs, supported by legislative measures like the national smoking ban. However, Greece still faces high rates of behavioral and environmental risk factors compared to EU averages. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic tested Greece’s public health infrastructure, driving improvements in emergency preparedness, vaccination campaigns, and intersectoral governance​. Despite advancements, systemic challenges persist. Greece’s healthcare system remains hospital-centric, with insufficient focus on primary care and preventive health services. Public health data collection and monitoring systems need modernization to support data-driven decision-making. The plan’s emphasis on cross-sectoral collaboration, while ambitious, requires stronger institutional frameworks to ensure sustained implementation. Financial constraints and unequal access to services, particularly in rural areas, exacerbate health inequities​. Overall, the plan’s strategic direction is aligned with international health priorities, and its emphasis on prevention and public health modernization is commendable. However, addressing structural gaps in governance, resource allocation, and primary care integration will be essential for achieving the plan’s objectives by 2025.