On Friday, February 27, a delegation representing the Kytherian Foundations and Associations held a scheduled meeting at the Ministry of Health with the Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis. The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Minister for Climate Crisis and Member of Parliament for Piraeus A, Konstantinos Katsafados.
The main focus of the discussion was the current situation at Kythera Hospital, particularly the significant shortages in medical staff. Serious concerns were raised regarding the imminent departure of doctors in critical specialties, as well as the lack of interest in filling vacant positions. Additionally, representatives expressed fears voiced by the local community about a possible downgrade of the Hospital to a Health Center or even its potential closure.
The Minister of Health provided categorical assurances that there is no plan to downgrade or suspend the operation of the Hospital. He also gave instructions for the immediate announcement of all vacant medical positions and for coordination with the Hospital’s Administrator regarding the possibility of establishing cooperation contracts with private physicians where feasible.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that the possibility of extending the monthly financial allowance — currently granted under specific conditions to doctors serving in island Health Centers — will be examined, with the aim of strengthening incentives for staffing Kythera Hospital.
It was also emphasized that the Minister’s associates will remain in close communication with Kythera Hospital, the Kytherian Associations, and Deputy Minister Mr. Katsafados to ensure that all feasible measures move forward as promptly as possible.
The meeting was attended by the Honorary President of the Trifyllio Foundation Emm. Kalokairinos, Vice President Emm. Kalligeros, as well as the Presidents of K.I.P.A. G. Kasimatis, the Kytherian Brotherhood of Piraeus-Athens D. Parisis, the Kytherian Association of Athens Vas. Samiou-Floropoulou, and the Society for Kytherian Studies Aik. Aroni-Tsichli.
This initiative highlights the strong commitment of the Kytherian Foundations and Associations to safeguard the sustainability and proper operation of Kythera Hospital, a structure of vital importance for the health and safety of the island’s residents.
Photographs and the official press release are available below.
