The new home delivery service for chronic patients, known as “Embraced,” is set to replace the expensive medications previously obtained from the National Health Services Organization (EOPYY) pharmacies.
Initial data indicates that on the first day of the new system’s operation, there were about 1,000 requests for home delivery of High Cost Medicines (HCM). Notably, until Sunday evening, EOPYY had recorded only 280 requests, as the Deputy Minister of Health, Marios Themistocleous, mentioned in a recent interview. The platform for submitting requests opened 2-3 days before home deliveries commenced, and as more beneficiaries learn about the service, interest in receiving medications at home is growing.
Each month, approximately 120,000 beneficiaries utilize EHS pharmacies, with an additional 19,000 insured individuals with serious and chronic conditions relying on EOPYY pharmacies every two months. The challenges faced by these patients, often having to wait hours in inclemencies, are well-documented. This issue became particularly evident at the end of January when the EOPYY pharmacy on Alexandra Avenue opened late, leading to long queues and requiring intervention from Health Minister Adonis Georgiades. Since then, measures have been underway to significantly enhance service delivery.
Out of the 139,000 insured individuals who can potentially benefit from the home delivery option, around 100,000 (72%) reside in Athens and Thessaloniki, with 41% of these patients dealing with chronic illnesses that complicate their daily lives.
The quantity of medicines distributed will be determined by patient demand. It is anticipated that those with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or those living in areas without EOPYY pharmacies will greatly benefit from this new service, significantly improving their access to necessary treatments.
The distribution company partnered with EOPYY is equipped to handle all medications currently dispensed by EOPYY pharmacies. For temperature-sensitive medications, specialized vehicles and packaging ensure proper cold chain management. If long-distance transport is necessary, medicines can be stored at various hubs throughout Greece, such as in Patras. The first home delivery was successfully completed on Sunday, a day before the official launch, for an 85-year-old woman in Ano Liosia requiring antiviral drugs for COVID-19. EOPYY pharmacies will continue to operate as usual for those who prefer in-person services.
“The long-awaited request of 120,000 patients regularly visiting EOPYY pharmacies is finally becoming a reality. Patients only need an electronic prescription, an intangible consultation, and to implement the home delivery service through the EOPYY platform. Prescriptions are verified and filled by pharmacists, and the medications are delivered by a certified company. This is a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services and improving the quality of life for those in need,” stated the Prime Minister in a TikTok video.
@kyriakosmitsotakis_10 promises I will keep & 1 I will break! #KyriakosMitsotakis ♬ original sound – Kyriakos Mitsotakis
Health Minister Adonis Georgiades remarked on “X” yesterday, “Today marks a significant change in healthcare delivery for patients! Starting today, home delivery of High Cost Medicines will be available nationwide for those who wish to opt for it. This ends the anguish of patients and their families waiting in long lines, whether in heat or cold. We will continue our reforms with direct cooperation with private pharmacies (announcements will follow next week). The NHS is evolving to become better and more compassionate.”
Step-by-Step Process
Patients wishing to receive their medications via home delivery can do so by following these simple steps on the EOPYY website:
– Visit the EOPYY Central Page: www.eopyy.gov.gr.
– Click on the “Receipt of FIS” link.
– Log in using Taxisnet.
– Enter your Taxisnet codes, followed by AMKA and AFM, then select “Confirmation.”
– Choose “Send at home.”
– Fill out your details completely. Remember to enter your postal code without spaces (e.g., 15123).
During the initial entry of contact information, the system will prompt you to confirm your email and mobile number. Providing all details is mandatory.
Delivery will be completed within 24-48 hours across the country, reaching even the most remote areas. For those who have difficulty completing the process online, assistance is available through EOPYY pharmacies or by calling 18181.
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