Authorities have arrested the chief of cardiac surgery at the public Ippokrateio General Hospital of Athens following allegations that he requested bribes from patients. Reports indicate the physician and clinic head demanded sums ranging from €3,000 to €5,000 in exchange for providing additional attention and supervision after surgical procedures.
This practice is locally known as “fakelaki,” literally meaning “little envelope,” a term used to describe informal or under-the-table payments often given to public-sector workers or medical professionals in exchange for preferential treatment. While Greece has made efforts to curb corruption in public services, cases like this underscore that such informal practices persist in some areas of healthcare.
The authorities are currently investigating the case, and the physician is expected to be brought before a prosecutor. The arrest has sparked renewed attention to the need for stricter oversight and transparency in Greek hospitals to ensure patient safety and fairness.
