Healthcare in Greece

While Greece's overall standard of healthcare is generally high, issues such as corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of funding often undermine the public sector.

To streamline the system and fight corruption, the Greek government has introduced universal social security numbers and electronic prescriptions. It has also channelled resources to Greece's larger hospitals.

Public healthcare in Greece

Public hospitals in Greece are largely adequate and home to professionals who do their best to deliver quality care. That said, the bureaucracy and culture of corruption in the public healthcare sector significantly reduce the quality of care. There are also long waiting periods.

The Greek government has been working to modernise its healthcare system. It has increased funding for early diagnosis and prevention programmes to reduce the incidence rates of cancer, childhood obesity, and cardiovascular disease. 

While some hospitals in more remote locations on islands may provide a lower standard of healthcare, the best public hospitals – usually concentrated in the major cities – offer care of a high standard. It is often the case that expats who require more sophisticated care than island hospitals can provide will be transported to a hospital in Athens or Thessaloniki.

Most medical staff in Greece will speak some level of English, though this may differ based on their position and the location of the hospital.

Useful links

• Greece Ministry of Health

Private healthcare in Greece

Private healthcare in Greece is generally considered superior to the public alternative. Greece's private medical facilities are typically less affected by the country's economic situation and have newer equipment. 

Moreover, doctors and nurses in private hospitals are more likely to speak English. Some Greek private hospitals even have affiliations with US hospitals or those in other countries, and their staff will have had at least some form of overseas training.

If you prefer to go to a private hospital in Greece, you would do well to have a private healthcare policy, since you will be responsible for the full cost of your treatment.

Health insurance in Greece

Expats who work in Greece make compulsory contributions to the Social Insurance Institute (IKA), as do their employers. These contributions give expats access to the National Health System (ESY) using their social security card, known as an AMKA. Healthcare provided by IKA-approved practitioners is typically free, but you may have to pay a small fee for prescription medication. 

Private healthcare services are popular among those who can afford them, and expats with the means to do so are advised to take out a private medical insurance policy to cover costs.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare during a short-term visit. UK citizens can use their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit.

Useful links

• IKA

Pharmacies and medications in Greece

A green cross normally marks pharmacies in Greece. They are widely available, especially in larger cities, and are generally a reliable first line of defence against illness. Many Greek pharmacists will speak English and are capable diagnosticians who may save expats a trip to the doctor.

Pharmacies typically open from 8am to 1pm and from 5pm to 8.30pm. If you visit a pharmacy, and it's closed, there will usually be a sign on the door with details of the nearest open pharmacy. 

Vaccinations in Greece

Several vaccinations are recommended for Greece. Routine vaccinations like the MMR, Tdap, influenza, and COVID-19 are recommended for entering Greece. 

Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are also recommended, as there may be a risk of exposure. If you're moving to a rural or forested area during spring or autumn, you should get a vaccine for tickborne encephalitis. Due to increased global cases, updated polio and meningitis vaccines are also recommended. 

Emergency services in Greece

Public ambulances are widely available in larger cities, but access may be restricted on some islands and rural areas. In these cases, private ambulances, helicopters, and taxis may be legitimate alternatives depending on the situation.

• Ambulance: 166
• General emergency: 112