Greek pathologists protest TSH test prescription restrictions

The Professional Association of Pathologists of Greece, in alignment with the Hellenic Society of Internal Medicine, has expressed strong opposition to new restrictions regarding the prescription of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) tests.

According to recent guidelines from EOPYY, TSH tests may only be prescribed up to twice per year. While certain exceptions exist, any second prescription within the same year must be performed exclusively by an endocrinologist.

Pathologists argue that this regulation is not merely an administrative hurdle but an infringement on the clinical role of internal medicine specialists in diagnosing and monitoring diseases. They contend that mandatory referrals to endocrinologists solely for repeat testing create unnecessary burdens on the healthcare system, increase non-essential referrals, and cause delays in patient care.