Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis has expressed his support for the Metaxa Hospital initiative to bring therapy dogs to cancer patients. The minister described the program, called “Company with Tails,” as an action that improves patients’ “quality of life,” while also noting that authorities are examining the possibility of allowing patients themselves to bring their own dogs to specially designed areas of Metaxa Hospital, under strict rules and protocols.
Adonis Georgiadis’ social media post
In the National Health System, we prove every day that we can innovate.
At Metaxa Hospital, a touching and significant initiative has begun: “Company with Tails.” Therapy dogs are alongside cancer patients, offering relief, strength and smiles during their treatment.
As Health Minister, I have particular sensitivity for cancer patients and want to personally support such innovative initiatives that improve their quality of life.
The next steps are clear:
•From autumn, systematic weekly visits by therapy dogs to Metaxa Hospital, in collaboration with the administration, Dog Therapy and Win Cancer.
•Gradual expansion of the program to other cancer hospitals across the country.
•And something even more innovative: we are examining the possibility for patients themselves to bring, under strict rules and protocols, their own dogs to specially designed areas of Metaxa Hospital.
The National Health System is evolving and changing for the better day by day. And our commitment is always one: to put the patient at the center.
