Medicine & Veterinary Greece

State Medical Insurance

Greece provides universal state medical insurance through the National Health System. Foreigners working or living in Greece for more than three months can access public medical services by participating in the social insurance system. To do this, it is necessary to obtain a tax number (AFM) and a social number (AMKA). This system covers basic medical services such as doctor visits, hospitalization, laboratory tests, and discounts on medications.

 

However, it should be noted that public hospitals may have long waiting times, especially for emergency care and specialist consultations. Many citizens and expats prefer to additionally obtain private insurance.

 

Private Medical Insurance

Private insurance provides a wider range of medical services and offers access to private clinics and hospitals, where service is faster and equipment is often better. Private insurance can cover services not included in state insurance, such as dental care, cosmetic surgeries, and specialized medical procedures. It can also include coverage for treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

Private insurance is available both from local insurance companies and through international insurance firms such as Cigna Global and Bupa. Many foreigners choose international plans for high-quality service in any region of Greece or beyond.

Greece offers a wide range of medical services in both state and private institutions.

 

State Health System

- Availability: Medical services are provided to citizens and residents with a social insurance number AMKA.

- How to obtain AMKA: Foreign citizens can obtain AMKA with the appropriate documents proving their legal stay in the country.

- Services: Include primary health care, specialized hospital care, and emergency services.

- Cost: Most services are provided free or at reduced rates for insured persons.

 

Private Medical Institutions

The private healthcare sector in Greece is well-developed and offers high-quality services.

- Availability: Direct access is possible without a referral from a doctor.

- Cost: Services are paid for by the patient or covered by private medical insurance.

 

The Largest State Hospitals in Greece

 

Athens

 

Athens General Hospital "Evangelismos" (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Αθηνών "Ευαγγελισμός"): One of the largest and most prestigious hospitals in Greece, offering a wide range of medical services.

 

University General Hospital "Attikon" (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο "Αττικόν"): A modern medical facility affiliated with the University of Athens, equipped with advanced equipment.

 

Athens General Hospital "G. Gennimatas" (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Αθηνών "Γ. Γεννηματάς"): Known for its specialized departments and qualified staff.

 

General Hospital "Sotiria" (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Νοσημάτων Θώρακος "Η Σωτηρία"): Specializes in chest diseases, including pulmonology and cardiology.

 

KAT Hospital (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο ΚΑΤ): A leading institution in the field of traumatology and orthopedics.

 

Thessaloniki

 

Thessaloniki University General Hospital AHEPA (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Θεσσαλονίκης ΑΧΕΠΑ): The largest hospital in Northern Greece, serving as an important research center.

 

General Hospital "Papageorgiou" (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο "Παπαγεωργίου"): A modern medical facility with a wide range of services and high service standards.

 

Thessaloniki General Hospital "Ippokrateio" (Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Θεσσαλονίκης "Ιπποκράτειο"): One of the oldest and most respected hospitals in the city.

 

Other Regions

 

University Hospital of Patras (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Πατρών): The main medical facility in Western Greece, providing specialized care.

 

University Hospital of Larissa (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Λάρισας): Serves the Thessaly region and is known for its research programs.

 

University Hospital of Ioannina (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Ιωαννίνων): A key healthcare institution in Epirus with modern medical equipment.

 

University Hospital of Heraklion (Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Ηρακλείου): The main medical facility on the island of Crete, offering a wide range of services.

 

The Largest Private Hospitals in Greece

 

Athens

 

Hygeia Hospital (Νοσοκομείο ΥΓΕΙΑ): One of the most prestigious private hospitals in Greece, known for its high quality medical services and innovative technologies. It offers a wide range of medical specialties and has modern diagnostic equipment.

 

Athens Medical Center (Ιατρικό Κέντρο Αθηνών): A leading medical facility. Known for its highly qualified staff and provides a full range of medical services.

 

Metropolitan Hospital (Metropolitan Hospital): A modern hospital located in the Piraeus area. Equipped with the latest technology and offers services in various medical fields, including cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery.

 

Mitera Hospital (ΜΗΤΕΡΑ): Specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, as well as providing services in other medical fields. Known for its pediatric and maternity departments.

 

Euroclinic Athens (Ευρωκλινική Αθηνών): A multi-disciplinary hospital in the center of Athens, offering high-quality medical services and a personalized approach to patients.

 

Thessaloniki

 

Interbalkan Medical Center (Διαβαλκανικό Ιατρικό Κέντρο): One of the most modern medical centers. Equipped with advanced technologies and provides services in a wide range of medical directions.

 

Genesis Hospital (Κλινική Γένεσις): Specializes in obstetrics, gynecology, and neonatology, and also offers other medical services. Known for its highly qualified staff and modern technologies.

 

Euromedica General Clinic of Thessaloniki (Γενική Κλινική Θεσσαλονίκης Euromedica): Part of the Euromedica group and provides a wide range of medical services using modern equipment.

 

Other Regions

 

Mediterraneo Hospital (Mediterraneo Hospital), Glyfada, Athens: Located in the coastal area of Athens, known for its modern medical services and comfortable conditions for patients.

 

Creta InterClinic (Creta InterClinic), Heraklion, Crete: A leading private medical facility on the island of Crete, offering a wide range of medical services with the use of advanced technologies.

 

IASO Thessalias (ΙΑΣΩ Θεσσαλίας), Larissa: A modern hospital providing high-level medical services in the Thessaly region.

Registering with a family doctor in the public healthcare system

 

The family doctor is your primary contact in the healthcare system. They provide general medical care, maintain health records, and refer you to specialists if necessary.

 

Registration Steps

 

a. Obtain a Social Insurance Number (AMKA)

How to get an AMKA?

- Visit the nearest Citizen Service Center.

- Provide the necessary documents: passport or residence permit; documents proving legal residence and registration in Greece.

- Fill out an application form.

 

b. Choose a Family Doctor

- Selection methods: online through the portal ehealth.gov.gr or in-person at a medical center.

 

Important to Know

Age Groups:

- Children under 16 are registered with a pediatrician.

- Persons over 16 choose a family doctor.

Changing Doctor: You can change your family doctor 6 months after the initial registration.

 

Booking an Appointment with a Specialist

 

Through a Public Family Doctor

Referral: The family doctor will assess your condition and, if necessary, issue a referral to a specialist in a public hospital or clinic.

Direct Access to Private Clinics

No referral: In private medical establishments, you can directly book an appointment with a specialist without a referral.

 

Using Electronic Services

eRDV Portal: Provides the ability to book appointments online with doctors in public institutions.

Website: [rdv.ehealth.gov.gr](https://rdv.ehealth.gov.gr/)

Smartphone Applications: Some public and private institutions offer mobile applications for scheduling appointments.

 

Important: Always keep track of updates in the health system and verify information on official websites, as procedures may change.

Emergency medical care in Greece is provided by both public and private institutions.

 

Emergency phone numbers

European Union emergency number: 112

- Available 24/7 and free of charge from any phone.

- Provides access to police, ambulance services, fire brigade, and coast guard.

- Operators speak multiple languages, including English.

 

- Ambulance: 166

- The direct number for calling an ambulance.

- Operators mainly speak Greek and English.

 

National Center for Emergency Care: Responsible for coordinating and providing emergency medical services across the country, it responds rapidly to calls and ensures transportation of patients to the nearest medical facilities.

 

Availability of emergency care

- Emergency medical services in Greece are provided to everyone on the territory of the country, regardless of citizenship or insurance status.

- In emergency situations, medical assistance is provided free of charge or at a minimal cost.

 

Language features

- English: Many medical professionals and operators speak English, especially in tourist areas and major cities.

- Other languages: Operators on number 112 can provide assistance in multiple languages.

- If necessary, request to be connected to an operator who speaks your language.

 

Medical institutions

- Public hospitals: They have emergency departments operating around the clock; provide a wide range of emergency medical services.

- Private clinics: Can also provide emergency care, but services may be chargeable; it is advisable to have insurance information or means to pay for services on hand.

 

Features on islands and in remote areas

- Limited resources: In some remote areas and small islands, access to medical services may be limited; in emergencies, evacuation by helicopter or speedboat to the nearest major hospital may be possible.

Public institutions: Public hospitals and polyclinics provide a wide range of medical services, including conducting tests and examinations.

 

How to get a referral for tests

- Family doctor: Within the public health system, to undergo tests or examinations, you need to consult a family doctor or specialist who will issue a referral.

 

Where to undergo tests

- Public hospitals and laboratories: After obtaining a referral, you can approach a public hospital or laboratory for testing. In public facilities, tests are often free or provided at reduced rates for individuals with a public social security number.

 

- Private laboratories working with the state: Some private laboratories cooperate with the public health system, and if you have a referral from a doctor, part of the cost may be covered by the state.

 

Timeline for receiving results: In public institutions, test results may be ready within a few days. Results may be delivered personally or sent to your doctor.

 

 

Private medical institutions: Private clinics and laboratories offer faster services; however, they are generally chargeable. Unlike public institutions, in private clinics and laboratories, you can undergo tests without a referral from a doctor. You simply schedule an appointment and complete the necessary tests.

 

Many private clinics offer convenient online appointment scheduling for tests and examinations through their official websites or mobile applications. You can choose the time of your visit, pay for services, and receive results online.

 

Emergency Cases

In emergency situations requiring immediate medical examination, such as serious injuries or acute illness, you can go to the emergency department of any public hospital. Here, tests and examinations will be conducted without a prior appointment.

 

Popular laboratories for tests in Greece: Biomedicine Group, IASO Diagnostic Centers, Euromedica, Medicheck, Affidea, Central Lab, Athens Medical Group, Hellenic Healthcare Group.

Choosing a Hospital

 

Public Hospitals

In public hospitals, childbirth is free or offered at minimal cost for insured individuals. These hospitals are well-equipped and offer qualified care, however, they may be overcrowded and entail certain waiting times for services.

Popular public hospitals: "Evangelismos", Athens; "Ippokrateio", Thessaloniki.

 

Private Clinics

Private clinics offer more comfortable conditions, individual rooms, and the option to choose a doctor. These services may be partially covered by insurance but often require additional expenses. In private clinics, it is often necessary to book certain dates in advance and discuss all conditions with the chosen doctor.

Popular private clinics for childbirth: IASO Maternity Hospital, Athens; Mitera Hospital, Athens; Genesis Clinic, Thessaloniki.

 

Choosing a Doctor

 

- Public sector: In public hospitals, a doctor is usually assigned to accompany you during childbirth. The possibility of choosing a specific doctor is limited.

- Private sector: In private clinics, you can choose a doctor based on recommendations or after a consultation.

 

Medical Insurance

 

Public Insurance: covers basic medical care, but does not always include additional services such as private rooms or anaesthesia.

 

Private Medical Insurance: may cover services of private clinics, more comfortable conditions, and services of a specific doctor.

 

 

Necessary Documents. Before hospitalization, gather all necessary documents:

- Passport or residence permit.

- Social security number (if available).

- Private insurance policy (if applicable).

- Medical records and tests — for example, ultrasound results and blood tests.

 

Partner Childbirth

 

Public Hospitals: Some public hospitals allow the presence of a partner during childbirth, but this may depend on the rules of the specific hospital, sanitary requirements, and the load of the maternity ward.

 

Private Clinics: Private clinics usually encourage partner childbirth and provide all the conditions for a comfortable stay of the partner. Such clinics may offer private rooms where the partner can stay with the woman before and after childbirth.

 

Vaccination of Newborns

Vaccination of newborns in Greece is not strictly mandatory by law, however, it is strongly recommended by the Ministry of Health. Most parents follow the official national vaccination schedule. Parents have the right to refuse vaccination, but in this case, difficulties may arise with enrolling the child in kindergarten or school, as proof of vaccinations is usually required.

In the event of the death of a foreigner in Greece, relatives and close ones need to comply with a number of procedures related to legal, medical, and consular requirements.

 

Notifying about the Death

- Medical Institutions: If the death occurred in a hospital, the staff will notify the necessary services. If the person died at home or in a public place, you need to call an ambulance or the police at number 166 or 112.

- Police: In the event of death outside a medical institution, the police will conduct an investigation to rule out any suspicions of a crime. The police also draw up a protocol on the death.

 

Obtaining a Death Certificate

 

Public Hospital: If the death is registered in a hospital, the medical staff will issue and provide a death certificate.

Medical Examiner: In the case of a sudden or suspicious death, a forensic examination may be required.

Translation of the document: For official use in another country, a death certificate must be translated into the required language and certified, if necessary.

 

Notice to the consulate or embassy

 

The consulate provides assistance in processing documents confirming death, and can also help coordinate the repatriation of the body to the homeland.

The consulate can offer support in translating documents, provide legal advice, and, if necessary, assist in organizing cremation or repatriation.

 

Repatriation of the body

 

Contact with a funeral bureau: The repatriation of the body is usually arranged through a licensed funeral bureau. In Greece, such agencies handle document preparation, transportation, and packaging of the body in accordance with international standards.

Required documents:

- Death certificate.

- Transportation permit from local authorities.

- Passport or other identification document of the deceased.

- Body transportation: The funeral bureau coordinates the process with airlines and the authorities of both countries. Repatriation can be quite costly, so it is recommended to verify whether such a service is covered by an insurance policy, if available.

 

Burial or cremation in Greece

Burial

- Burial can be organized at a local cemetery. Greek funeral agencies assist with the arrangement of the funeral, plot booking, and necessary documents.

 

Cremation

- Cremation: In Greece, cremation became possible relatively recently and is not as common as burial. Special crematorium facilities exist in some major cities (Athens, Thessaloniki).

- Documents and permits: For cremation, a number of documents are required, and in some cases, permission from the closest relatives.

 

Financial and insurance issues

- Life insurance and health insurance: If the deceased had insurance coverage, the insurance company may cover the costs of repatriation or burial. Contact the insurance company for clarification of the terms.

- Bank accounts and property: Legal consultations may be required to manage the estate of a deceased foreigner, especially if they had real estate or bank accounts in Greece.

 

Legal support

To resolve legal issues and manage inheritance, it is recommended to consult a lawyer specializing in international law. A lawyer can assist with document translation, filing applications with relevant authorities, and provide consultations on inheritance taxation.

Mandatory vaccinations for dogs: Rabies vaccination.

A comprehensive vaccination is recommended: parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus, parainfluenza.

 

Mandatory vaccinations for cats (that can go outdoors or travel): Rabies vaccination

A comprehensive vaccination is recommended: calicivirus, viral rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia.

 

Mandatory procedures for pets

- Microchipping and registration of the animal in a unified database managed by the veterinary service of Greece.

- Veterinary passport: mandatory for travel and visits to veterinary clinics.

 

Helpful tips for pet owners

Entry rules: If you are bringing a pet into Greece, check the vaccination and procedural requirements in the country of departure. Rabies vaccination and microchipping are mandatory.

Owner responsibility: The owner is required to maintain regular vaccinations and other mandatory procedures because non-compliance may lead to fines.

Specific requirements: Some Greek regions may have their own rules regarding animal vaccinations and treatments, especially during the tick season.

Pet hotels

Pet hotels provide short-term accommodation for pets when owners go on vacation, business trips, or for medical treatment. They may include not only accommodation but also full-fledged care for the pet.

- Accommodation: Pet hotels offer separate rooms or enclosures adapted for various types of animals—dogs, cats, and sometimes birds or exotic animals.

- Care: Hotels provide full feeding, walking, games, as well as basic veterinary services.

- Cost: The cost varies depending on the location and level of services provided, with an average price of about 10–30 euros per day.

- Additional services: Some hotels have surveillance cameras that allow owners to monitor their pet online, as well as grooming and training services.

Popular pet hotels in Greece: Happy Dogs Kennel & Hotel, Athens; The Pet Resort, Thessaloniki; Pet City Hotel, Athens and other cities; Pets Paradise, Athens.

Animal Shelters

Shelters in Greece play a crucial role in helping homeless animals and provide temporary or permanent accommodation.

Well-known animal shelters in Greece: Dogs’ Voice; Stray.gr; Nine Lives Greece; Arche Noah Crete Animal Welfare.

Pet ownership in Greece is regulated by laws and requires compliance with a number of standards aimed at ensuring the safety and health of pets, as well as respect for public places and other residents.

Legal regulations on pet ownership

- Microchipping and registration;

- Veterinary passport and vaccination.

Rights and responsibilities of owners

- Owner responsibility: Owners must provide appropriate living conditions, feeding, medical care, and safety for their pet.

- Rules for public places: Dog owners must keep their pets on a leash in public places and clean up after them.

Keeping animals in residential buildings and apartments

- Neighbor consent: In some homes, neighbor consent may be required to keep pets.

- Noise restrictions: Pet owners must ensure that their pets do not create noise that disturbs neighbors.

- Pet maintenance: Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pet not only outside but also in the common areas of the residential building (stairs, yard).

Animal transportation

- Metro and buses: Small dogs and cats may travel in carriers, while large dogs are allowed only on a leash and with a muzzle. In some cases, a special ticket for the animal may be required.

- Taxis and car rentals: Many taxis and car rental companies allow pet transportation, but it is recommended to check conditions in advance.

- Sea transport and ferries: Greek ferries allow the transport of pets, for which special areas are designated. The animal must be on a leash, and in some cases in a cage or carrier.

Places for walks and activities

- Beaches: In some coastal areas, walking with pets is allowed, but it is important to check the rules. On popular beaches during the high season, the rules for pets may be stricter.

- Parks and walking zones: In cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, there are equipped areas for dog walking, where animals can run off-leash.

- Prohibited areas: In some public places, such as playgrounds and public parks, signs may be posted prohibiting the entry of pets.

 

Main fines for improper handling of animals

Lack of microchipping and registration: may result in a fine of up to 300 euros.

Lack of vaccination: may lead to a fine of up to 200 euros.

Uncleaned waste in public places: may result in a fine of up to 100 euros, depending on local regulations.

Improper animal transportation: may lead to a fine of up to 150 euros.

Animal cruelty and abandonment: Fines for cruelty start from 5,000 euros and can reach 30,000 euros or more, depending on the severity of the violation. In serious cases, criminal penalties, including imprisonment, are provided.

Abandonment of animals in the street or public places: Releasing or leaving homeless animals that are not sterilized and registered on the street or in public places is prohibited. For violation, a fine of up to 500 euros is provided.

Compliance with pet ownership rules is enforced by local authorities, veterinary services, and the police. Violations can be reported to the police or local animal protection organizations.