IOM-HYGEIA Group Partnership

23 September 2019

Looking out for the best interests of unaccompanied migrant children in the context of corporate responsibility and sustainability, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and HYGEIA Group have joined forces in creating a network for performing specialized medical tests on the underage migrant population staying in shelters in Athens.

Responding to the IOM’s request for support, HYGEIA Group is offering free of charge:

• DNA testing to establish genetic relationship
• Eye exams / interventions
• Orthopedic exams / interventions
• Vaccination if deemed necessary
• Specialized gynecological exams / interventions
• Medical check-up for pregnancy
• Specialized developmental exams
• Medical tests to establish age
• Medications in emergencies
• Regular provision of first-aid packages to shelters
• Regular provision of clothing / footwear to individuals leaving Greece to settle their legal cases

It is a series of expensive specialized medical tests conducted on top of the services offered to unaccompanied migrant children by the National Health System. In addition, services such as DNA testing contribute significantly towards expediting and concluding pending family reunification cases, looking out for the best interests of the children.

“The support and contribution of HYGEIA Group to the Project is invaluable for all 131 children hosted by the International Organization for Migration in 6 shelters. Since the beginning of the Project, HYGEIA Group has been assisting in the efforts, offering specialized and even very expensive healthcare services, actively contributing to ensuring a high standard of living for the unaccompanied migrant children,” said Gianluca Rocco, Chief of IOM Greece Mission.

Commenting on the partnership, the HYGEIA Group CEO, Mr Andreas Kartapanis, noted, “For HYGEIA Group, the principles of corporate responsibility form the foundation of its long course. Focusing on promoting and safeguarding health and taking responsibility for life, we have integrated a comprehensive social contribution program in our daily business operations, aimed at vulnerable groups in need of assistance. We are very excited to have been able to contribute in ensuring the good health of the children hosted by the International Organization for Migration.”

The partnership between the IOM and HYGEIA Group form parts of the “Operation of Six Shelters for Unaccompanied Migrant Children in Greece” Project, with a capacity of up to 131 places. The Project commenced on 1 January 2019 and has hosted 252 unaccompanied migrant children to date. This IOM Project to house unaccompanied migrant children is funded by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund of the European Union.