Thessaloniki Private Clinic Sealed for Illegal Chemotherapy Unit

Greek health inspectors from the National Transparency Authority discovered a private clinic in eastern Thessaloniki running a fully equipped oncology department that was not included in its operating license. The unit had been functioning since 2022 with only one pulmonologist specialized in lung oncology, who lacked a written contract with the facility.

The clinic employed no radiologists, intensive care staff, or sufficient nursing personnel as required by law. Inspectors also found the clinic posted a promotional video online showcasing a biological safety cabinet for handling cytostatic drugs, despite lacking legal authorization for such services.

“The physician bears co-responsibility for the illegal operation of the oncology department, as providing services in an unlicensed space violates scientific and ethical responsibility.”

Authorities allege the physician prescribed chemotherapy drugs from the clinic's office starting in 2022, with clinic staff preparing and administering them in the unlicensed unit. Patients admitted for non-cancer diagnoses were reportedly given chemotherapy during their stay.

The National Transparency Authority has recommended the permanent revocation of the clinic's license and referred the case for potential fraud against the national health insurer EOPYY. Deputy Regional Governor Kostas Gioutikas signed the closure order on September 28, with a judicial officer executing the seal on September 29.

The clinic's owner reportedly operates additional facilities in Athens and other Greek cities. Relatives of patients gathered outside the clinic during the sealing operation, urging authorities to ensure accountability.