site.btaGreek Hospital Doctors Hold 24-Hour Nationwide Strike

Doctors from hospitals across Greece are holding a 24-hour nationwide strike on Wednesday, Greek public broadcaster ERT reported, citing information from the Federation of Associations of Hospital Doctors of Greece, a trade union representing physicians working in the country’s public hospitals.

The main demands of the medical professionals include higher wages and the filling of vacant positions within the national healthcare system.

As part of the protest actions, gatherings are planned in several cities across the country. The main demonstration in Athens is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. (EET) in front of the building of the Ministry of Health of Greece, ERT reported.

The federation has called on all doctors to join the strike, stressing that the protest actions will continue until “substantial salary increases, the hiring of full-time permanent doctors, and improved working conditions” are achieved. The union also said that the demonstrations form part of ongoing pressure on the authorities after protest actions in support of medical residents were held on March 11.

Health authorities have not reported any serious disruptions to hospital operations so far, with emergency care expected to be maintained during the strike, ERT added.