The launch of the Hellenic Red Cross officials’ support program was announced by Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis, in the presence of Deputy Minister of Health Marios Themistokleous and the President of the Hellenic Red Cross Antonis Avgerinou.

This was given by the Governor of the 1st Ministry of Finance. Olga Balauras and the Commander of the 2nd Ministry of Finance Christos Roylos.

The application of the service will start piloting in April, with 25 volunteers of the Greek Red Crossin three hospitals of the 1st and 2nd Health District and in particular from the Athens General Hospital “Annunciation”Athens General Hospital “George Gennimatas” and the University General Hospital “Atticon”.

Target of the new program are:
• Providing information and guidance to patients with regard to hospital procedures.
• Citizens’ orientation to the competent departments for faster service.
• Support for flow management, to reduce delays and errors.
• Support for administrative staff to ensure good information and avoid confusion.

The Minister of Health Adonis Georgiadis He said: “I am very happy because today at the Ministry of Health we are starting a very ambitious and human program. In collaboration with the Hellenic Red Cross, which I would like to thank, with the Deputy Minister of State Mr. Themistokleous and the commanders of the 1st and 2nd Ministry of Education. We are organizing a group of 25 Greek Red Cross volunteers who will assist our fellow citizens at the time of the call. The purpose of the action is to have a man, a “erythromitis”, who will tell them where to stand, what they need to do, find the doctor and in general, how to move in a place where they may seem “mountain” at that time due to stress and anxiety. I think a little humanity and a little smile at this difficult time will make the difference. Of course it is not the only measure of the Ministry of Health for on -call. It has begun and is in place all our plan. In a short time, the 500 wounded carriers hired via DBA and who will be distributed in Attica hospitals and other areas will get a job. It also progresses the program for the electronic trace of patients so that we can monitor their course. Our goal is to see our fellow citizens in the call, a truly noticeable difference. ”

The Deputy Minister of Health Marios ThemistoclesOn camera said: “The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Greek Red Cross, is taking an important initiative aimed at improving citizens’ service in emergency departments. The volunteers of the Hellenic Red Cross, with their experience and training, will provide guidance to patients and their attendants, helping to improve the quality of services in ICTs and enhancing the work of medical and nursing staff. This initiative reinforces the human dimension of the National Health System and demonstrates the importance of the cooperation of state and voluntary organizations to upgrade the services provided. Our goal is a modern and effective NHS that responds to the needs of citizens and provides qualitative care especially at the most critical times. We thank the Hellenic Red Cross and especially its President Antonis Avgerinos as well as all those who participate in this effort that enhances the sense of safety and quality in our hospitals. ”

The President of the Hellenic Red Cross Antonis Avgerinos On Camera: “The Greek Red Cross is joined by the Ministry of Health for years on a common horizon of actions and partnerships on altruism, solidarity of social contribution, humanity and volunteering. In this case, our offer is in line with the decision of the Ministry of Health to improve the management of patients who come to the public hospitals. We have a triple goal and purpose with the presence of our 25 volunteers: First, to better serve patients who come to the hospital TEPs. Secondly, to help manage patients’ flows as best we can to avoid waiting for their exams and thirdly, to be able to improve hospital staff communication with patients. The Greek Red Cross has the know -how and experience to respond in the best possible way. “