Chapters from the modern history of medicine of the Greek island of Paros

Overview

Paros is with the area of almost 200 km² the third largest island in the Cyclades (ca. 15.000 permanent inhabitants). Although this island is very favourite summer destination for many Greeks and foreigners, the availability of medical care is not ideal here even at the beginning of 21^st century, especially from the perspective of the citizens of the central European inland state with a dense network of medical facilities.

The paper is presenting some aspects of medical history and availability of medical care on Paros from 20^th century until the present day. It is focusing mostly on the life and work of the local native, doctor Georgios Patelis (1910–1991), who worked from 1940s until the end of 1970s as the only graduated medical practitioner on the island. With respect to his credits for the public health and the general development of the island a small Medical museum was dedicated to him in the centre of Parikia, where his daughter Katerina is caring for his memory and legacy. The second part of this paper describes the history of medical care on Paros – and in general, on the Cyclades – in the last 50 years.

Keywords:

Greece – Cyclades – Paros – 20th century – Georgios Patelis – medical care