Description

The National Telemedicine Network (NTN) is one of the most important digital transformation initiatives of the Greek health system, aiming to ensure equitable access to high‑quality health services for all citizens, regardless of geographical location. The project supports the provision of teleconsultation, telemonitoring and telecare services, strengthening the connection between primary and hospital care structures, especially in island, remote and hard‑to‑reach areas of the country.

The Euro‑Mediterranean Institute for Quality and Safety in Health Services participates in the project in collaboration with Dextera Consulting and the Intelligent Systems Laboratory of the University of Thessaly, contributing to the design of the quality and standardization framework for the telemedicine services provided.

Project Scope

Within the project, the Implementation Study of the National Telemedicine Network was completed, defining the operational model for the development and functioning of the network at national level.

In parallel, quality assurance specifications and standardization requirements for telemedicine services were developed, aiming to ensure patient safety, clinical effectiveness, interoperability and consistent service delivery across the country. A key contribution of the Institute was the development of a national standard for telemedicine protocols, as well as the preparation of specialized teleconsultation and telecare protocols for selected clinical specialties.

The project also included defining the minimum requirements of the regulatory and legal framework necessary for the effective operation of the NTN, covering issues of clinical governance, data protection, professional responsibilities, documentation and accountability.

Added Value

The contribution of the Euro‑Mediterranean Institute focuses on shaping a coherent quality and safety framework for telemedicine, ensuring that digital health services are delivered with unified standards, clear procedures and measurable quality criteria.

The project creates the conditions for:

• Equitable access to specialized health services for citizens regardless of geographical location.
• Reducing inequalities in the provision of healthcare.
• Strengthening continuity of care and integration of health services.
• Establishing national quality and safety standards in telemedicine.
• Supporting decision‑making through evidence‑based and standardized procedures.
• Supporting the development of clinical protocols tailored to the requirements of tele‑health services.
• Developing a sustainable and scalable model of digital health services for the National Health System.

Through the project, the foundations are set for the institutionalization and systematic implementation of telemedicine in Greece, in line with international best practices, European guidelines and the principles of patient safety and quality.