Weight Loss: Free medication distribution begins – Eligibility and process

With the amendment of the Joint Ministerial Decision, the implementation of two new preventive screening programs begins as part of the National Program for the Prevention and Management of Cardiovascular Risk. These programs, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Fund, focus on the early prevention of major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, with a focus on adult obesity and kidney dysfunction.

The first program, which addresses obesity, offers free, innovative, high-cost medications for the treatment of the condition, as well as free preventive screenings. Additionally, personalized monitoring and guidance will be provided to citizens with a high body mass index (BMI above 40 or BMI 37-40 with related comorbidities). The goal is to promote healthy habits, gradual weight loss, and long-term weight management to prevent cardiovascular complications. Within the next few days, SMS notifications will be sent to eligible individuals for a doctor’s visit.

The second program focuses on the prevention of kidney dysfunction, aiming at the early detection of kidney diseases in high-risk individuals. Through free preventive screenings and medical visits, beneficiaries will receive comprehensive care, with the results being recorded in the National Electronic Health File.

Those benefiting from the programs who have activated electronic prescriptions will receive the digital referral for free screenings. Those without electronic prescriptions can make appointments for the screenings through their AMKA (Social Security Number) without any financial burden at collaborating centers. Note that no doctor’s prescription is required, and beneficiaries will receive the referral directly.

The Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, stated: “Prevention saves lives, as demonstrated by the millions of citizens who used the ‘Prevention’ program, many of whom were saved due to early diagnosis. With the new programs for obesity and kidney dysfunction, we aim to prevent significant cardiovascular risk factors early, and I am confident that citizens will embrace these free programs that protect our health.”

The Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, Dimitris Papastergiou, emphasized: “Technology in healthcare is a strategic priority for the Government. With these new programs, we are offering citizens easy and free access to modern health services, with digital solutions that make the healthcare system more accessible and efficient.”

The Deputy Minister of Health, Irini Agapidaki, noted: “With the two new free programs, we provide innovative medications and holistic care for obesity while detecting kidney problems early in patients with chronic diseases. Prevention is becoming a daily habit, offering free screenings and medical care to everyone.”

The Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance, Nikos Papathanasis, said: “The new preventive screening programs and the provision of free innovative medications are part of the government initiatives to strengthen public health. They enhance prevention and early diagnosis, while the funds from the Recovery Fund are being used for the benefit of society.”