Private clinic in Thessaloniki shut down over illegal oncology department

The Greek National Transparency Authority (EAD) has ordered the permanent closure and revocation of the operating license of a private clinic located in Thessaloniki. The decision follows an inspection triggered by a complaint, which revealed the facility was operating a fully equipped oncology department without proper authorization. Additionally, the clinic faced critical staff shortages and failed to maintain a mandatory intensive care unit.

Investigations uncovered that a pulmonologist specializing in lung oncology provided treatment and chemotherapy at the facility without a formal employment contract. Officials identified cases where patients admitted for non-malignant conditions were administered chemotherapy drugs, suggesting fraudulent claims for reimbursements from the National Organization for Health Services Provision (EOPYY). Reports indicate the physician had been prescribing these drugs since 2022.

Following the EAD's findings, the Deputy Regional Governor of Thessaloniki, Kostas Gioutikas, signed a closure order on September 28, 2026. A court bailiff was tasked with sealing the premises the following day. Authorities are currently expanding their investigation to determine the full scale of the malpractice, including the identities of patients affected and the circumstances surrounding the unauthorized drug administration.