Health Insurance in Greece, Europe
Information expatriation
Capital City: Athens
Total area: 131,957 km2
Population: 11,147,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +30 XXX
Practical Information:
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information
Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:
· Greece has a universal healthcare system known as the National Healthcare System (ESY). It provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens and residents.
· The system is funded through taxes, worker contributions, and government subsidies. It accounted for around 8-10% of GDP in recent years.
· Citizens are registered with a Social Insurance Foundation based on their employment, which they and their employer pay into. This provides coverage.
· Primary healthcare is delivered through health centers and clinics. Specialized care is provided at public hospitals.
· People can also use private doctors and clinics but usually have to pay out-of-pocket except for certain procedures.
· Healthcare quality is generally good but infrastructure and resources suffered under austerity measures post-2008 financial crisis.
· Doctors and hospitals still struggle with staffing shortages due to salary issues and many medical professionals emigrating.
· Access issues exist in remote islands and rural areas where primary facilities may be limited.
· Life expectancy is around 80 years, on par with EU averages. Infant mortality rates are also average for the region.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· EU nationals should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access the public healthcare system for emergency/necessary treatment during temporary stays.
· Non-EU nationals will need private travel health insurance as public insurance may not cover you fully. It's essential to have coverage.
· Consider registering as a resident if staying longer than 3 months. You'll need an AMKA social security number to access public services.
· Health services on islands may be more limited than major cities. Plan for potential medical evacuations if needed.
· Have insurance to cover the additional costs of treatments at private facilities if you opt to avoid public hospitals.
· Learn basic medical terms in Greek for communicating with doctors/pharmacists, especially in rural areas.
· Be aware of the potential for staff shortages and wait times at public hospitals due to understaffing issues.
· Supplemental insurance for medications may be needed as significant out-of-pocket costs still exist for drugs.
· Keep immunizations and health screenings up to date as recommended for your age/risks when living abroad long-term.