Country Report: How do Greek municipalities currently promote health and health equity?

Abstract

Abstract The establishment of municipalities in Greece is governed by Kallikratis Law (2011). There are 325 municipalities in Greece. The municipalities promote activities relating arts, education, health, sport and social services. In addition, there are a few national laws giving municipalities extra possibilities. Main financial sources of municipalities are municipal taxes, fees and duties, VAT tax. Central government finances major infrastructure projects in the municipalities, based on individual projects. Also, some NGOs are helping municipalities in their social role. Aim The investigation of the promotion of health and health equity in municipal level. Findings: Social determinants of health are the main causes for health inequalities at a municipal level. Due to that, some municipalities have developed programs to mitigate them. Municipalities have developed the National Intermunicipal Network of Healthy Cities - Health Promotion has as its sole purpose the prevention of diseases, health Promotion, the screening control of high-risk population groups and generally promote integrated policies in the field of Public Health. Today includes 218 (67%) KALLIKRATI Municipalities from all regions of the country. Municipal social capacities are: kindergartens, programs for migrants, daily care centres for elder people, health care centres (urban and rural), community nursing /home nursing care, mainly to elder and vulnerable groups. Environmental hygiene: The most important role is the collection of household waste and their appropriate disposal, as well as the protection of the environment. There are difficulties in promoting health and health equity by the municipalities: a) lack of financial & human recourses, b) lack of explicit responsibility of Municipalities c) lack of capacity about health issues and 4) bureaucracy. Conclusions There is place for action at the municipal allowing municipalities to implement various programs relating to healthy living environments.