Moving to a new country brings exciting opportunities, but it also means navigating essential practicalities — such as understanding the healthcare system. For foreign professionals planning to live and work in Greece, it's crucial to know what options are available and how to access them effectively.
Greece's healthcare system provides both public and private choices, each with distinct features, accessibility, and associated costs. Familiarizing yourself with these healthcare options not only ensures your physical well-being but also significantly impacts your comfort and productivity during your stay in Greece.
Being proactive and informed can help mitigate any potential stress or complications related to healthcare, allowing you to focus more fully on your professional responsibilities and personal adjustments.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about navigating healthcare in Greece as a foreigner.
What Does the Healthcare System Look Like in Greece?
Greece operates a dual healthcare system comprising public services provided by the National Health System (ESY) and private healthcare facilities. The public sector, managed by the National Organization for Healthcare Services Provision (EOPYY
https://www.eopyy.gov.gr/), ensures basic healthcare coverage for employed residents, retirees, and their dependents. While English is commonly spoken in major urban healthcare facilities, it's not universally guaranteed, especially outside major cities.
Pros of the Greek healthcare system:
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Affordable public healthcare services with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
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Comprehensive coverage for salaried workers, retirees, and their families.
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Wide availability of pharmacies and prescription medication.
Cons of the Greek healthcare system:
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Potential language barriers outside major urban centers.
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Longer waiting times for specialist consultations and elective procedures in public facilities.
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Varying levels of facility quality and availability depending on the region.
Understanding these pros and cons helps clarify why some expatriates prefer one system over the other. Next, we'll delve deeper into public and private healthcare, exploring their specific features, access requirements, and potential costs in greater detail.
Public Healthcare in Greece: Access and Coverage
Public healthcare in Greece is accessible primarily through compulsory social insurance for salaried employees, administered by
EFKA (Unified Social Security Fund). This insurance grants access to a network of EOPYY-registered healthcare providers and hospitals.
Coverage under public healthcare includes general practitioner (GP) visits, hospitalizations, and prescription medications, usually with a minimal co-payment. Prescription costs generally involve a co-payment of around 10-25% depending on medication type and treatment category.
To access healthcare services, you must first obtain an AMKA number (Social Security Number), provided upon employment registration. With your AMKA, you can book appointments online via the EOPYY portal or directly contact clinics and doctors registered in the EOPYY network.
Pros of public healthcare in Greece:
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Access to a wide network of general and specialized services for employed residents.
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Low co-payment costs for most medications and services.
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Emergency care is provided even without insurance (billing may follow).
Cons of public healthcare in Greece:
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Waiting times can be long for non-urgent care.
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Availability of specialists may be limited depending on your region.
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Paperwork and bureaucratic processes can be time-consuming.
Private Healthcare in Greece: Pricier but More Reliable
Private healthcare is a popular choice among expatriates for its shorter waiting times, wider choice of specialists, and higher likelihood of English-speaking staff. Private hospitals such as
Iaso,
Metropolitan, and
Hygeia, especially in Athens and Thessaloniki, are renowned for modern facilities and quality care.
Costs for private healthcare vary but typically range between €40 to €100 for a specialist consultation. Tests, scans, and treatments are charged separately, making it essential to clarify costs upfront. While private healthcare can complement public insurance, many expatriates choose comprehensive private insurance plans to cover these expenses fully.
Pros of private healthcare in Greece:
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Shorter wait times and more flexibility in scheduling appointments.
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Access to high-end clinics and specialists with modern equipment.
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Higher chance of English-speaking staff in private facilities.
Cons of private healthcare in Greece:
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Services can become expensive without adequate insurance.
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Not all private providers accept direct billing from foreign insurers.
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Medical costs must often be paid upfront before seeking reimbursement.
Health Insurance Options for Foreign Workers
For salaried foreign workers in Greece, enrollment in the public insurance system via EFKA is mandatory, deducted directly from your salary. However, freelancers, remote workers, or early arrivals might not immediately qualify for public insurance.
These groups can opt for private health insurance from Greek providers such as
Generali or
Interamerican or maintain international insurance coverage valid in Greece. Private policies typically offer extensive networks, rapid healthcare access, and full reimbursement for private care.
To access public healthcare services, obtaining your AMKA number as early as possible is essential. EU citizens should ensure they have their
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) until fully enrolled in Greece's system.
Pharmacies and Medications
Greek pharmacies are abundant, often clearly marked with a green cross sign. Pharmacists are highly trained and can offer basic medical advice and dispense prescription medications prescribed by doctors registered with EOPYY or private providers.
Most medications require prescriptions, though common items like pain relievers and allergy medicines can be purchased over-the-counter. Pharmacies operate standard hours, with designated locations open after-hours and weekends for emergencies.
Prescription medications typically require a small co-payment, covered partially by your public insurance.
Emergency Care and Hospitals
In Greece, emergency care is accessible via public hospitals or private clinics. The universal emergency number is 112, valid across the EU, but in Greece, calling 166 directly connects you to ambulance services.
Public emergency departments provide immediate care regardless of insurance status, though you might receive a bill afterward if uninsured. Public hospital emergency rooms can be busy, leading to potential delays.
Private emergency clinics offer quicker care and more personalized services, but this comes with significantly higher fees. Ensure you have insurance or funds set aside if choosing private emergency services.
Healthcare for Freelancers, Remote Workers, and Non-EU Residents
Freelancers, remote workers, and non-EU residents face distinct healthcare access considerations. These individuals must voluntarily register and pay contributions to EFKA or choose private health insurance coverage.
For
freelancers in Greece, registering with EFKA provides affordable access to public healthcare, but administrative delays can occur. It's advisable to secure temporary private insurance initially. Non-EU residents must also satisfy health coverage requirements for residency permits, making comprehensive private insurance a practical choice initially.
Digital nomads and
remote workers often benefit from international insurance plans specifically designed for global mobility, offering broader coverage and flexibility.
Tips for Navigating the Greek Healthcare System
Effectively navigating healthcare in Greece requires thorough practical preparation. Since medical needs can arise unexpectedly, being prepared can significantly reduce stress and enhance your experience when seeking care.
The healthcare landscape can initially feel overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the language or administrative procedures. However, with proper steps and precautions, you can smoothly navigate and benefit from the system.
Here are comprehensive tips for effectively managing your healthcare experience in Greece:
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Keep copies of essential documents: Always have copies of your passport, AMKA (Social Security Number), residency permits, and health insurance cards accessible. Digital copies stored securely on your phone or in cloud storage can save you significant hassle if originals are lost or forgotten.
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Be prepared for language barriers: Although many healthcare professionals in major urban areas speak English, language barriers can still occur. Bringing along a Greek-speaking friend or translator is particularly advisable for appointments outside Athens or in smaller healthcare facilities. Translation apps can also be helpful, but having someone fluent provides added peace of mind and clarity.
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Regularly use official resources: Utilize the EOPYY website and online resources regularly to find and verify registered healthcare providers, book appointments, and stay updated on policy changes or announcements. Familiarizing yourself with these resources can streamline your interactions with the healthcare system.
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Maintain emergency funds: Always keep emergency cash or an alternative reliable payment method available. In cases requiring immediate private healthcare services or medication purchases, having readily accessible funds ensures prompt treatment without financial stress.
Finally, staying proactive about your healthcare needs helps you quickly adapt to life in Greece. These measures not only ensure you receive timely and efficient care but also significantly contribute to your overall comfort and well-being during your stay.
It’s Your Turn Now
Understanding Greece's healthcare system is essential for foreign workers aiming for a seamless transition into working life in the country. With careful planning and awareness of both public and private healthcare options, you can ensure reliable and affordable access to necessary health services.
Whether you're entering Greece as a salaried employee, freelancer, or remote worker, your healthcare decisions will shape your experience. By taking time to understand the system and make informed choices, you’ll be better equipped to stay healthy and focused on building your new life in Greece.
Or, better yet, submit your CV and start looking for your ideal job today!