Healthcare System in Greece: everything you need to know

How does the Greek healthcare system work?

For a long time the Greek healthcare system was well positioned worldwide and in comparison to other European countries. They have one of the highest life expectancies in the whole continent, mainly due to their diet. However, due to the economic problems they have suffered, today it is considered one of the worst in the region. The country has general and specialized hospitals and about 200 primary health centers.

There is a public system, controlled by the National Health System financed by government and social security funds, with more than 125 hospitals throughout the country. An important detail to keep in mind is that no hospital is open 7 days a week, so you should find out which hospitals are open in the area where you live or are visiting.

In major cities, such as the capital city of Athens, you will find the best hospitals. Care is faster and of higher quality than in the rest of the country. However, there are long waiting times to be seen by a doctor or to receive test results.

There is also a private health care system with clinics available throughout the country. Waiting times are short and the health centers are more modern and have better technology than public hospitals. 

How does the system work for foreigners?

If you are going to live in Greece and contribute to the Social Security Institute, you and your family will have access to the health care system. This can also be purchased through your employer who must provide you with insurance. If you do not work for a local company, you can enroll in the system and pay out of your own pocket.

Foreigners also have the option to join the private health insurance system. These health insurances cover about 85% of all medical expenses you may have. There are two types of private insurance. One option provides coverage in all hospitals in the country and you must enroll before the age of 65. The second option gives you access to a specific network of clinics and hospitals and you can join up to the age of 80.

Members of European Union countries have access to the public system using the European Health Insurance Card.

To acquire a visa or residence permit in Greece you must have private health insurance. This can be travel insurance or international health insurance. International health insurance is the most popular option for foreigners residing in Greece, as it allows them to be treated in the best clinics in the country, and also to have coverage when traveling back to their home country.  

What do I do if I have an emergency in Greece?

Everyone has access to emergency care in Greece, regardless of the severity of the emergency. It also does not consider your immigration status or whether or not you have health insurance. However, if you do not have insurance and require care, you will have to pay full price for the services received.

Like all other EU countries, the emergency number in Greece is 112. This service connects you to the police, fire department and emergency medical services.

In rural areas it is more complex to find emergency care compared to big cities. Therefore, having a private health insurance becomes more important if you are visiting or living in rural areas.

Emergency services are free for those affiliated to the public or private system. Foreigners must have insurance to receive coverage for emergency services.

If you want to find the best health insurance for your trip to Greece, go to InternationalHealth.com where you can compare, quote and purchase travel insurance and international health insurance at no additional cost and 100% online.

How do pharmacies work in Greece?

Since 2014, most medical prescriptions are delivered virtually in Greece through the e-prescription service. You should make sure that your doctor works with this system and that he/she sends your prescription to a pharmacy that accepts it.

For over-the-counter medications, you can go to any pharmacy and the pharmacist can recommend a medication for your condition.

If you are traveling to Greece with medication, it is best to bring a letter from your doctor detailing the medication. There are some medications that are allowed in EU countries, but not in Greece, so it is very important that you find out if your medication is prohibited in order to find a suitable alternative.

If you are going to live permanently in the country and need to take a medicine periodically, it is best to get a family doctor to evaluate you and prescribe you the local medicine with a prescription written by a Greek doctor. 

Entry Requirements

There are no restrictions to enter Greece because of Covid-19.

Remember that it is an EU country, therefore the restrictions are the same as in the other member countries, find out if your country of nationality requires a visa to enter.