Chania General Hospital faces critical medical staff shortages

The internal medicine clinics and the Emergency Department at Chania General Hospital ‘Agios Georgios’ are facing a critical crisis due to severe staffing shortages and the departure of doctors. The Chania NHS Doctors' Union (EGESYX) and the Hospital Employees' Association have issued a joint warning regarding the dangerous reality threatening patient safety and the ability of staff to perform their duties.

Data indicates a dramatic reduction in medical personnel; in 2021, there were 12 internists serving the hospital, whereas currently, only four specialized internists remain to staff the two internal medicine clinics. The director of the Internal Medicine Clinic has warned that if the understaffing is not addressed immediately, there is a risk that the clinic's operations could be suspended by November.

The shortage also impacts the Emergency Department, where increased patient volume combined with insufficient staff has created an urgent need for reinforcement and reorganization to ensure the sustainability of medical services in the region.