Greece’s crushing economic crisis has led to a mass exodus of doctors, particularly specialists, with the Athens Medical Association (ISA) saying it sees a 250 percent in those who want to leave the country this year – and 500 percent over the last five years.
In 2012, 642 non-specialist doctors and 1166 specialists were given certificates to be used abroad, while in 2007 the corresponding figures were 243 non-specialist doctors and 292 specialist doctors, 535 doctors in total.
“For the first time in Greek history, the immigration of young people doesn’t concern the unskilled manpower but the highly skilled: the specialist doctors of our country,” the association’s President George Patoulis said, noting that the information events organized for the European programs and the work opportunities abroad confirm this sad picture.
Some 4,000 doctors affiliated with the group have gone abroad. Some 62.5% are specialists and are looking anxiously for a professional opportunity. The career choices for doctors in Greece are limited, as the National Healthcare System of Greece doesn’t offer any opportunities anymore and the private healthcare sector is shrinking.
The association has created an Information and Employment Office for Greece and Abroad, aiming to help the young unemployed doctors who are its members. Those interested can obtain more information about the program by phone at: 210-383-9770, 211 and 213 and at 697-270-2589 from 11am. to 5 pm. or they can send an email to: tkal@isathens.gr
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