A comprehensive evaluation of 50 Greek hospitals has revealed widespread systemic failures, including underreporting of adverse events, protocol violations, understaffing and poor resource allocation, according to a report by the Health Quality Assurance Agency (ODIPY).

The independent organization released the results of the assessment following a fatal incident at the capital’s Tzaneio Hospital, where a 62-year-old patient died after receiving the wrong blood type in a transfusion. The patient spent days in intensive care before dying earlier this week.

The evaluation, which began in 2022, included hospital self-assessments, on-site inspections and staff interviews. Reports have been submitted to the Health Ministry.

Key findings reveal unequal distribution of patient loads, with major university hospitals facing excessive pressure while others operate at 40-50% capacity. Many cases could be handled locally or through primary care rather than emergency departments.

Critical procedural failures were identified, including inadequate patient identification methods still based on bed numbers rather than systematic protocols. Sample identification for biological tests was found lacking, with missing referral documentation.

The report documented understaffing and personnel exhaustion, with nursing assistants improperly performing their duties during night shifts. “There is a significant need for continuing education and knowledge updates,” the report also noted.

Hospitals showed poor compliance with surgical safety protocols and inadequate medical record documentation. Communication gaps between hospital staff and institutional committees were identified, with committees described as non-functional oversight bodies.

Antibiotic usage remained at high levels without proper monitoring, contributing to pathogen resistance. The report criticized the absence of structured procedures for investigating adverse events.

“ODIPY attempts to assess the current situation in Greek hospitals, aiming to build a healthcare system where quality constitutes a daily commitment,” said Dafni Kaitelidou, the agency’s president.

The organization recommends restructuring the national health map based on regional needs and implementing systematic patient identification procedures.