Greece boasts a healthcare system that balances universal coverage with a mix of public and private options, making it accessible for residents, expats, and travelers alike. With a reputation for high-quality medical services, Greece’s system provides a safety net through public health provisions while also catering to those seeking faster or specialized care via private facilities. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of how healthcare functions in Greece, including how to access services, insurance requirements, and tips for ensuring smooth medical experiences during your stay.
Public Healthcare in Greece
The backbone of Greece’s medical services is the National Health System, known locally as ESY (Ethniko Systima Ygeias). This system is designed to deliver free or low-cost care to all residents and eligible foreigners. It is primarily funded through taxes and social security contributions, ensuring broad coverage across the population. Public hospitals and clinics form the core of this network, offering essential services at little to no cost. Nonetheless, many residents and visitors opt for private healthcare to benefit from shorter wait times and more modern facilities.
The Greek public health infrastructure is accessible to EU citizens, legal residents, and expatriates who have registered and paid into the system. Private or international insurance plans are often recommended for those seeking expedited or more comprehensive care.
Public healthcare in Greece includes a wide range of services such as hospitalization, laboratory tests, maternity care, emergency transportation, health promotion programs, disease control measures, environmental health oversight, and access to essential medicines and medical equipment.
Healthcare for EU Citizens
EU nationals can access healthcare using the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which allows them to receive medical services in Greece on the same basis as local residents. While the EHIC covers many treatments, it does not extend to private healthcare services, which are paid out-of-pocket or through private insurance. The card is particularly useful for visiting Greece for short-term stays, enabling access to primary care and some dental treatments at local PEDY (National Primary Healthcare Network) clinics.
How to Register for Public Healthcare in Greece
Obtaining public healthcare coverage begins with acquiring a social security number called AMKA. The registration process varies depending on your employment status and residency circumstances.
If Employed by a Greek Employer
Employees must secure an AMKA, with their employer handling much of the registration process. Employers will contribute to social security on behalf of their workers and typically assist in choosing a healthcare provider. If employment registration does not occur automatically, you should visit your local EFKA (Unified Social Security Fund) office to complete registration.
Necessary documentation includes:
- Greek tax identification number
- S1 form (European health form where applicable)
- Passport or ID card photocopy
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of residence if residing long-term
Once registered, you will receive a health booklet confirming your insurance status, which must be renewed annually. Contribution payments are typically made over a 50-day period, and coverage is maintained through these contributions.
For Self-Employed Individuals
Self-employed workers must apply through OAEE (Organization for the Self-Employed), submitting:
- Valid passport or Greek ID
- Proof of recent insurance payments
- Two passport-sized photographs
Coverage options vary, so verifying the extent of your benefits with EFKA is advisable. Reimbursement-based systems mean that you pay upfront for services and claim reimbursement later.
For Dependents and Family Members
Once registered, your family members can benefit from your coverage if contributions are current. Eligible dependents include:
- Spouses (if unemployed)
- Parents under certain conditions
- Unmarried children up to 18, or 24 if studying and unemployed
- Children with disabilities exceeding 67% (verified by medical assessment)
- Siblings with disabilities over 67%
- Orphans and children with one surviving parent
- Divorced spouses under specific circumstances
Proper documentation and proof of dependency are necessary for family coverage.
Private Healthcare in Greece
While public services are comprehensive, many residents and visitors prefer private healthcare due to shorter wait times and access to advanced technology. Private hospitals in Greece often employ English-speaking staff and collaborate with international medical institutions, making them especially attractive for foreigners.
Private insurance plans are widely available and can cover expenses not payable under public insurance, including elective procedures, dental work, and cosmetic surgeries. Many private hospitals also accept international insurance, providing greater flexibility for expatriates and travelers.
Costs and Coverage of Private Healthcare
Monthly premiums for private insurance vary depending on age, coverage level, and whether international coverage is included. Basic plans can start around €30 per month, with more extensive coverage costing over €210 monthly. Factors influencing the cost include age, gender, nationality, coverage area (local or international), and optional add-ons such as co-insurance and deductibles.
Private insurance in Greece typically covers:
- Specialist consultations
- Elective procedures, including plastic surgery
- Advanced dental treatments
- Care at top-tier hospitals nationwide
For detailed policy options, consult providers such as medappinsider.blog.
Choosing a Private Insurance Provider
A variety of private health insurers operate in Greece, offering tailored plans for residents and tourists alike. Providers include local companies and international firms offering global coverage. When selecting a plan, consider your specific needs, age, and whether you require coverage that extends beyond Greece.
Health Insurance Options for Travelers
Travelers to Greece should consider private travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, hospital stays, and repatriation. Many international insurers provide plans suitable for short-term stays, ensuring peace of mind during your visit.
Leading Private and Public Hospitals in Greece
Greece hosts a network of reputable hospitals, both public and private, especially in major cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. Many private hospitals accept private insurance and cater to international patients, offering modern facilities and multilingual staff.
| City | Hospital Type | Accepts Private Insurance |
| — | — | — |
| Athens | Private | Yes |
| Athens | Private | Yes |
| Piraeus | Private | Yes |
| Thessaloniki | Private | Yes |
| Athens | Public | No |
| Patras | Public | No |
For detailed information, visit official health directories or hospital websites.
Emergency Medical Services in Greece
Emergency medical services are accessible nationwide, with ambulance services reachable via dialling 166. Emergency care is generally free for all, including tourists and expatriates, and includes ambulance transport, urgent hospital care, and first aid. However, follow-up treatments, hospital stays, and specialist services may require insurance coverage or out-of-pocket payments. Carrying travel or private insurance is recommended to cover additional medical expenses.
Pharmacies and Medication Access
Greece has an extensive pharmacy network, with pharmacists proficient in English in larger cities. Pharmacies display a green cross symbol and are usually open during standard hours, with some offering 24-hour service. When traveling with prescription medication, ensure you carry it in its original packaging along with a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and medication. It’s advisable to verify that your medication is permitted under Greek regulations before traveling.
Mental Healthcare Services
Recent years have seen an expansion of mental health services in Greece. International health insurance plans often include access to mental health professionals, providing expats with quality psychological support and counseling.
Healthcare for Greek Golden Visa Applicants
Applicants for Greece’s Golden Visa program benefit from access to the country’s healthcare system by registering with public services or obtaining private coverage. Ensuring adequate health insurance coverage is essential for maintaining residency status and for overall well-being during your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare in Greece
Does Greece have universal healthcare?
Yes, Greece provides universal healthcare coverage through its public system, accessible to residents and legal foreign nationals who contribute via social security.
Is healthcare in Greece of high quality?
Despite economic challenges, Greece maintains high standards in many healthcare facilities, especially private hospitals. Its healthcare system ranks favorably among European nations, offering quality services to both locals and foreigners.
Does Greece offer free healthcare?
Basic services are available free or at low cost for insured residents and visitors. Emergency care is free for all, though some treatments and medications may incur charges.
Who funds healthcare in Greece?
Funding primarily comes from taxes and social security contributions. Employers and employees contribute to social insurance schemes, with about 15% of Greeks purchasing private insurance for additional coverage.
Are there health insurance options available for foreigners?
Yes, expatriates paying into Greece’s social insurance system (IKA) have access to public healthcare. International insurance plans can also be extended to cover treatments in Greece.
Does public insurance cover retirees?
Retirees contributing to EFKA can access public healthcare, with some contributions required for prescriptions. EU retirees are generally eligible under similar terms.
Is dental care covered by public insurance?
Basic dental treatments, including preventive care and orthodontics for children under 13, are covered. More advanced procedures often require private coverage.
What is the typical contribution rate for public health insurance?
Employers usually set the contribution rate around 30% of the employee’s salary, covering various health services.
For more details, visit authoritative sources such as medappinsider.blog.