Over 200 Potential Violations at Greek Medical Practices and Clinics

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The Medwatch artificial intelligence system developed by Greece’s Ministry of Health has identified 231 indications of potential violations at medical practices and institutes providing services that could pose risks to public health.

According to Giannis Doxas, the platform’s creator, Medwatch monitors the online activity of around 16,000 doctorswith a digital presence.

Speaking to ERT, Doxas said the platform analyses advertisements using specific keywords across Meta, Google and TikTok. It also examines the websites of doctors, clinics and institutes, as well as online reports that may cross the boundary between legitimate medical practice and quackery.

According to information from ERT, the platform scans online content four times a day. So far, it has identified 231 indications of potential violations, including 50 involving medical practices.

Doctor-influencer among cases flagged

One of the cases identified by the system involves a doctor who operated as an influencer on social media.

The doctor published sponsored posts and patient testimonials apparently aimed at attracting clients. Greek legislation on medical advertising expressly prohibits such practices.

Medwatch also identified a medical practice through email communications where doctors allegedly performed procedures without holding the relevant medical speciality.

In another case, the system detected a facility carrying out invasive procedures that regulations allow only in hospitals.

Undeclared laser device also detected

The system also flagged a medical practice that advertised procedures using an undeclared laser device.

Another case raised particular concern after the algorithm detected a discrepancy between a doctor’s declared speciality and their actual speciality.

Athens Medical Association begins inspections

As of Monday, the Athens Medical Association has access to Medwatch and has begun inspections of medical practices that the system has placed under a red alert.

Authorities will refer cases involving serious violations, including those resulting in patient injury or death, directly to the judiciary and the National Transparency Authority.

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