Greek Health Ministry Unveils AI Platform Amid Widespread Unlicensed Clinic Scandal
Greece's Health Minister launched MedWatch, an AI-driven app to expose unlicensed medical practices, after a celebrity died in an illegal procedure.
Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis introduced MedWatch, an AI-powered service that monitors private healthcare providers' online activity and allows users to check licences and lodge complaints. Early data show 119 dental practices advertising hyaluronic acid and Botox, 231 instances of unapproved stem-cell use, and 911 illegal Botox ads, while 468 cases involve non-doctors promoting medical procedures. The minister noted a 91% reduction in medical advertising since the launch.
At the same time, complaints against Athens Medical Association president Giorgos Patoulis are under review by the National Transparency Authority. A Thessaloniki clinic running an unlicensed oncology unit was ordered permanently closed after inspectors found staff shortages and no intensive-care facilities. Union leader Michalis Giannakos warned that reduced inspection staff exacerbate the problem.
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