Healthcare in Greece
Greece's healthcare system (ESY - Ethniko Systima Ygeias) provides universal coverage to citizens and legal residents. The WHO has ranked Greece 14th globally for overall healthcare performance.
Public Healthcare System
Coverage includes:
- Hospital care (130+ general and specialized hospitals)
- Primary care (200+ health centers)
- Emergency care (free for everyone, regardless of status)
- Prescriptions (subsidized)
Accessing public care:
Once you have legal residence and work in Greece, you're enrolled in EFKA (social insurance) and receive an AMKA number (social security). After 50 days of contributions, you receive a health booklet providing access to public services.
EU citizens with EHIC cards receive emergency care during temporary stays.
Public vs Private
| Aspect | Public (ESY) | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free/very low | Pay or insurance |
| Wait times | Can be long | Short (days vs weeks) |
| Facilities | Older, functional | Modern, comfortable |
| English | Limited | Generally available |
| Specialists | May need referral | Direct access |
| Quality of care | Good | Good to excellent |
Private Healthcare
Private healthcare is popular among expats for:
- Shorter wait times (MRI in days vs months)
- English-speaking doctors
- Modern facilities
- Direct specialist access
Private insurance costs:
- Basic plans: €30-80/month
- Comprehensive plans: €100-200/month
- Premium international: €200+/month
Major private providers:
Greek companies: Interamerican, Ethniki Insurance, Generali Hellas, Eurolife FFH
International: Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA, Bupa Global
For Expats and Visa Holders
Digital Nomad/FIP Visa holders: Must have private health insurance that covers Greece. This is a visa requirement.
Golden Visa holders: Must maintain health insurance coverage.
Work permit/EU Blue Card holders: Enrolled in EFKA after starting work, accessing public system.
Students: Must have insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage.
Finding Care
In Athens: Major hospitals include Evangelismos, Hygeia, Athens Medical Center (private). Many doctors in central Athens speak English.
In Thessaloniki: AHEPA University Hospital (public), Interbalkan Medical Center (private).
On Islands: Larger islands have hospitals; smaller islands may only have health centers. Serious cases are evacuated to Athens or Thessaloniki.
Emergencies: Dial 166 for ambulance or 112 for general emergency (English operators available).
Prescriptions
Medications are significantly cheaper than in the US (often 50%+ less). Many medications requiring prescription elsewhere are available over-the-counter at pharmacies (farmakeio - look for green cross).
Pro Tips
- •Private insurance is required for most visa types - factor it into budget
- •Private hospitals in Athens have excellent English-speaking staff
- •Pharmacies can advise on minor issues and sell many medications OTC
- •Get AMKA number as soon as possible after establishing residency
- •Keep EHIC card if you're an EU citizen - valid for emergency care
Have questions about healthcare in Greece?