Greece’s national healthcare provider EOPYY has welcomed the dismantling of an alleged criminal network accused of systematically defrauding the organization through fake physiotherapy claims, as authorities vow to continue extensive anti-fraud inspections.
The case was uncovered following a joint investigation between Greece’s Financial Police and EOPYY’s auditing services. According to the organization, investigators identified suspicious activity through extensive data cross-checks and digital monitoring tools.
A key role in exposing the alleged scheme was played by EOPYY’s OTP (One Time Password) verification system, which is used to confirm the delivery of healthcare services, including physiotherapy sessions.
Under the system, a unique verification code is sent to the insured person’s mobile phone to confirm their physical presence during medical appointments or when receiving medical supplies. EOPYY said the mechanism has significantly strengthened oversight and helped prevent abusive or fictitious claims.
During an analysis of statistical data, authorities detected multiple medical prescriptions linked to different social security numbers but verified using the same mobile phone number. The findings were immediately forwarded to the Financial Police, leading to a deeper investigation and the eventual dismantling of the alleged network.
In a statement, EOPYY said the cooperation between its auditing mechanisms and law enforcement agencies was “decisive” in exposing the fraud operation, adding that the investigation helped protect both public funds and the rights of legitimate healthcare beneficiaries.
The organization also announced that additional safeguards have already been introduced to strengthen the prescription system further. Since February 2025, the issuance of medical prescriptions has required a certified mobile phone number registered through Greece’s Health Insurance File system and the National Communication Registry.
If no verified phone number exists, the system blocks the issuance of new prescriptions beyond an initial notification request prompting the insured person to update their contact details.
EOPYY stressed that it will continue to pursue cases of fraud and corruption with “zero tolerance,” while thanking the Greek Police and the Financial Police Directorate for their cooperation and effectiveness during the operation.
“The inspections will continue at full intensity,” the organization said, adding that digital tools and cooperation with judicial and law enforcement authorities will continue to be upgraded in order to protect the public interest.
