SYRIZA and PASOK challenge constitutionality of contentious article in mental health reform bill

SYRIZA and PASOK challenged the constitutionality of a contentious article in a conservative government bill reforming mental health services, during a parliamentary debate on Monday.

Article 65 allows for the reinforcement of the National Health System (ESY) by utilizing private doctors and providers to address needs that could endanger public health. It also specifies penalties for private doctors who refuse to support the ESY in such situations, including the termination of their contract with EOPYY, Greece's main healthcare provider, and a ban on access to the electronic prescription system.

The New Left, a splinter group from SYRIZA, also supported this constitutional challenge.

"The penalties outlined in the bill for private doctors who refuse, as is their constitutional right, to participate in emergency shifts ultimately harm patients, especially...