Evaluating the DRG System in Greece and Germany: Structural Differences, Implementation Challenges and Policy Implications

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Published: Dec 31, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/hapscpbs.45387
Keywords:
Diagnosis-related Group Systems (DRGs) DRG System in Greece (Gr-DRG) German DRG System (G-DRG) DRG-based Hospital Payment EuroDRG International Classification of Diseases (ICD)
Ornela Bouzi
Applied Health Informatics and Telemedicine, School of Physical and Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
Nikolaos Tsoromokos
Department of Economics, University of Piraeus, Greece.
Dimitrios Zarakovitis
Digital Health Applications and Health Economics Analytics Laboratory, Department of Economics, University of Peloponnese, Greece.
Dimitrios Tsoromokos
Applied Health Informatics and Telemedicine, School of Physical And Applied Sciences, Open University of Cyprus, Cyprus.
Abstract

This paper investigates the Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs) and how they are implemented in the healthcare systems of Greece and Germany. The study begins with an introduction to DRGs, outlining their fundamental concept, structure and function. DRGs are a classification system for patients according to medical diagnosis, treatment and other factors and are employed in the costing and funding of hospitals. A historical overview is provided, reviewing the development of the DRG systems in European countries, with an emphasis on the reforms and national variations. The challenges and the post-adoptions developments of DRGs in Greece and Germany are examined to determine the extent to which the system has been adapted specific to the characteristics of these national healthcare systems. Last, the paper assesses the impact of DRGs on the European level on hospitals’ efficiency and resource management and outlines future challenges for extension of their use.

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