Deputy Minister of Health Marios Themistocleous expressed his wishes for a speedy recovery to George Mylonakis, noting that this is an extremely difficult situation. “The situation is stable, however the first ten days are crucial in such cases,” Themistocleous added. He stressed that there has been very good medical treatment so far, refraining from giving more information, citing medical confidentiality.
Mr. Themistocleous, speaking to “MEGANEWS”, referred to the need to protect minors from the uncontrolled use of social media, the new recruitment of permanent doctors in the National Health System and the incentives for filling positions in the region and on the islands.
Themistocleous stressed that the effort for an age limit on access to social media is not just a regulatory measure, but a public health issue. As he said: “Uncontrolled use of social media at very young ages has been linked to worsening mental health conditions, increased rates of depression, and sleep disorders, as many children stay awake scrolling even until 3 or 4 in the morning.” The Deputy Minister of Health noted that Greece is among the first countries in the European Union to take such an initiative, stressing that the measure has been positively embraced by many parents. As he stressed: “The aim is not a punitive logic, but to protect children from a digital world that can be detrimental to their mental health.” At the same time, he noted that parents have a key role in setting limits, although he acknowledged that this is not easy to put into practice, particularly when social pressure is strong. He also noted that information and guidance for parents and students also goes through the school, which is already contributing in this direction.
Regarding the new recruitment of doctors and the staffing of the NHS, Mr. Themistocleous said that a new notice for 850 permanent positions for doctors in the National Health System will be issued in the coming period, which will concern hospitals across the country.
The Deputy Minister of Health stressed that the climate has changed significantly, as many tenders that in the past ended up barren, even in large hospitals in Attica, are now registering strong interest.
He added that the new major tender, which is coming soon, includes positions for the islands, noting that: “As has been the case in recent years, this year – on an even larger scale – a plan to support island regions for the summer months will be implemented,” he added: “Staff will be moved from the major urban centres and especially from Athens, in order to meet the increased needs created by the summer period. For each such move, an additional incentive of 2,000 euros, in addition to the salary, is provided in order to cover the seasonal population explosion recorded on the islands during the summer months.”
