How Greece’s local health units are expanding access to healthcare for vulnerable citizens

Published on 26/11/2025 – 15:00 GMT+1
•Updated
27/11/2025 – 11:30 GMT+1

In Giannouli, near Larissa, a Local Health Unit (TOMY) is reshaping access to care for vulnerable residents. Patients like Vasiliki Moustaka, who lives with severe hypoglycemic episodes, rely on the unit for both medical and emotional support.

Staffed by doctors including Dr. Zoi Papanikolaou, TOMY eases pressure on hospitals by offering primary care, referrals and mental-health assistance.

Supported by €202.5 million from the European Social Fund+, Greece’s 127 TOMY units aim to reduce health inequalities, an effort experts say is essential for fair, universal healthcare across the EU.