Updated Study on Corruption in the Healthcare Sector : Final Report

In 2012, Ecorys conducted an initial study on corruption in the healthcare sector (SCH1). The purpose of the current study on corruption in the healthcare sector was two-fold: (i) to analyse and report on relevant developments since the publication of SCH1 and (ii) to provide an in-depth analysis of selected issues: privileged access to medical services, improper marketing and potential risks involving double practice. The study covered all EU-28 Member States, with specific attention focused on: Greece, Croatia, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania. The analysis is based on desk research, an online survey sent to stakeholders across the EU, thematic interviews with various organisations in the field of (EU) healthcare, and fact-finding missions, providing more detailed analysis and examples with regard to the six selected countries. The study concluded that: Bribery in medical service delivery remains one of the main challenges, especially in many Eastern and Southern European Member States. Corruption related to granting privileged access to healthcare or potential risks involving double practice are not isolated to Member States with a high perception of corruption (in healthcare). Transparent procedures are key in addressing corruption in procurement processes. Attempts to address improper marketing increase at both EU and national level.