Panhellenic Medical Association faces leadership and election crisis

The Panhellenic Medical Association (PIS) is facing a period of institutional instability regarding its leadership and election processes. In response to the situation, the European Council of Medical Associations (CEOM) has issued an official communication to Greek medical associations. The CEOM emphasized the fundamental principle of professional and institutional autonomy for medical bodies, noting that such independence is a guarantee for patient safety and public trust. However, the CEOM clarified that it does not have the authority to intervene in national legal, electoral, or institutional matters, which remain the sole jurisdiction of Greek authorities and courts.

Simultaneously, internal pressure is mounting within the Greek medical community. A joint letter signed by 24 medical associations has been sent to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health, demanding the immediate restoration of legality and the calling of new elections for the PIS. The signatories argue that the current provisional committee, appointed in July 2026, is overstepping its mandate by attempting to perform administrative duties rather than focusing strictly on organizing elections.

Additionally, the Medical Association of Thessaloniki has met with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to address broader healthcare concerns. Beyond the PIS election crisis, the association highlighted critical issues including medical staff shortages in public hospitals, the brain drain of young doctors, and the need for improved compensation and working conditions within the National Health System.