The Health Ministry yesterday turned down the resignation of Antonis Kontaratos, the director of the Evangelismos Hospital in Athens, after a document was published showing he had recommended that doctors send patients needing MRI and CAT scans to private centers.

Kontaratos explained to the ministry that his circular was only intended as a temporary measure to reduce waiting times at the hospital, which deals with up to 1,700 cases a day, until a new scanner is installed. He added that he only advised doctors to refer patients who had insurance to cover the costs of the scans at private clinics.

The ministry said that it was satisfied by the clarifications provided by Kontaratos but warned hospital chiefs that they should request permission before adopting such measures in the future.