Title: The future impact of technology in the Greek health sector

Authors: Lycurgus L. Liaropoulos

Addresses: University of Athens, Department of Nursing, 17 Pittakou Street, 15126, Athens, Greece

Abstract: This article describes current and future prospects and threats of medical technology in the current Greek health system and the alternative strategies for optimal utilisation of new technologies. Using the Delphi method, we investigate developments and consequences of health technology and the likely impact of advances in communications, biotechnology, materials science and technical procedures, and we describe the context in which important choices must be made. Our results show that the Greek health system will be affected by international and domestic scientific and technological advances in the life and other basic sciences and by technologies that detect and control health risks by preventing, diagnosing, and curing illness. Also important are laser technology, blood banks, surgical techniques, and alternative therapies. Our findings support the promotion of health technology assessment in Greece.

Keywords: technology assessment; health impact; medical technology; technology and health; medical technology and society; healthcare; Greece.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHTM.1999.004538

International Journal of Healthcare Technology and Management, 1999 Vol.1 No.3/4, pp.409 - 414

Published online: 21 May 2004 *

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