Does Greece Have Good Hospitals?
The healthcare system in Greece is highly regarded and was once ranked among the best in the world. The Greeks have one of the highest life expectancies in the world.
There are differences in the quality of care based on whether you are on the main island or one of the smaller islands.
Since Greece’s financial crisis, less money has been allocated to healthcare, resulting in a decline in the quality of care.
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How Many Hospitals are in Greece?
In Greece, there are currently 283 hospitals. Greece has both public and private hospitals, and it is believed that there is actually an oversupply of beds in these hospitals.
Do Doctors in Greece Speak English?
Many healthcare professionals in Greece speak English, as a lot of them have been trained in North America or the UK.
Healthcare professionals in private hospitals are more likely to speak English than in public hospitals.
Is Healthcare Free in Greece?
Greece operates a National Health System, also known as ESY. ESY provides all residents will free and accessible healthcare.
Expats who are working, looking for work, or on a pension must contribute to the IKA, which is Greece’s social security system, and therefore will receive free or subsidized healthcare.
Citizens of the E.U. may have access to free public healthcare for a certain amount of time if they have their European Health Card.
The Greek healthcare system comprises both public and private healthcare providers. It is recommended that foreigners traveling to Greece purchase full private health insurance, as the Greek public healthcare is not comprehensive.
In cases where the government does not cover 100% of the medical costs, private insurance can cover the portion of the bill.
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Best Health Insurance for US Citizens Living in Greece
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Private vs Public Hospitals in Greece
Conditions are known to be much better in private hospitals than in public hospitals. Private hospitals tend to have newer equipment than public hospitals.
Public hospitals in Greece’s healthcare system are underfunded, resulting in overcrowding, hygiene issues, and inadequate nutrition for patients. For many patients, families are expected to bring food to the patients.
Doctors and nurses are more likely to speak English in private hospitals. Treatment in private facilities can be costly and is not covered by the IKA.
Public Healthcare in Greece
Expatriates can access public healthcare in Greece if they contribute to the country’s social security program, known as IKA. An expat must apply for the national health insurance provided by the IKA.
Expats will receive a social security card known as AMKA. If an expat visits an IKA-approved practitioner, healthcare is typically free. Expatriates will still be required to pay a fee for prescriptions.
General vs Specialized Hospitals
Hospitals in Greece are split into two categories: general and specialized. General hospitals have multiple specialty departments that handle most medical cases, whereas specialized hospitals focus entirely on a single specialty.
Emergency Numbers in Greece
- 100 – police
- 199 – fire
- 166 – emergency medical service
- 108 – Coast Guard
- 112- expats should use this number for an English operator
Top Hospitals in Greece
251 Air Force General Hospital
Leof. Panagioti Kanellopoulou, Athina 115 25, Greece
+30 21 0746 3399
AHEPA University Hospital
Kiriakidi 1, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece
+30 231 330 3110
“Aghia Sofia” General Children’s Hospital
Thivon 1, Athina 115 27, Greece
+30 21 3201 3000
Alexandra General Hospital
Lourou 4-2, Athina 115 28, Greece
+30 21 0338 1100
Aiginiteio University Hospital
Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 72, Athina 115 28, Greece
+30 21 0728 9400
Corfu General Clinic
Corfu 491 00, Greece
+30 2661 036044
Evaggelismos General Hospital
Ipsilantou 45-47, Athina 106 76, Greece
+30 21 3204 1000
General Hospital of Argos
Korinthou 191, Argos 212 00, Greece
+30 2751 024456
Laikο General Hospital of Athens
Agiou Thoma 17, Athina 115 27, Greece
+30 21 3206 0800
Mediterraneo Hospital
Ilias 8-12, Glifada 166 75, Greece
+30 21 0911 7000
Santorini Hospital
Καρτεραδος, Thira 847 00, Greece
+30 2286 035300
Sismanogleio General Hospital
Sismanogliou 37, Marousi 151 26, Greece
+30 21 3205 8001
Thriasio General Hospital of Elefsina
Λεοφ. Γ. Γεννηματά, 196 00, Greece
+30 21 3202 8000
Tzaneio Prefecture General Hospital of Piraeus
Leoforos Afentouli, Zanni ke, Pireas 185 36, Greece
+30 21 3208 1000
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International Citizens Insurance has an experienced team of authors, including expatriates and world travelers, providing curated guidance for our clients.
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