There is a wide selection of international health insurance plans available to expats who are relocating to or visiting Greece. Having an international policy guarantees access to well-equipped private hospitals at your destination, and wherever you are.

Those moving or traveling to Greece will undoubtedly have many questions regarding how the Greek healthcare system works, as well as whether private health insurance is necessary.

This guide provides information about health insurance in Greece for foreigners and locals, as well as about the country’s healthcare system, to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions on your insurance purchase.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Greece

Healthcare System in Greece

The Greek healthcare system can be characterized as a mixed health system made up of a universal public healthcare system known as the National Health System of Greece (ESY) and a private healthcare system.

The quality of care and range of services in public hospitals are decent, as these facilities are not present on every Greek island. Resources are also very limited even if provided in these areas.

If you require any major surgeries while you are on any of the less developed islands, you would likely have to be flown or taken by boat to the nearest hospital on the mainland. Many public hospital workers speak little or no English so they may struggle to communicate with tourists.

Public Healthcare in Greece

The Greek ESY guarantees free healthcare for all Greek residents and citizens through universal coverage. Expats who are working, residing, or retiring in Greece must contribute to the social security system (IKA) to access free or subsidized healthcare in the country.

Healthcare services are also provided to EU and non-EU citizens on the basis of multilateral or bilateral agreements.

The public healthcare system manages around 130 general and specialized hospitals financed by the state budget and social insurance funds to provide emergency, in-patient, and out-patient care.

It also consists of about 200 primary care health centers and 1,500 rural medical centers that provide primary care services in rural areas, funded by the state budget and free of charge.

Recommended Public Hospitals for Expats in Greece

1. Evangelismos General Hospital
   Ipsilantou 45-47, Athens 106 76
   +30 213 2041000
2. Attikon University General Hospital
   Rimini 1, Chaidari 124 62, Athens
   +30 210 5831000
3. General Hospital of Thessaloniki AHEPA
   Stilponos Kyriakidi 1, Thessaloniki 546 36
   +30 2313 303110, +30 2313 303111
4. University General Hospital of Heraklion
   Leof. Panepistimiou, Iraklio 715 00, Greece
   +30 281 039 2111

Private Healthcare in Greece

The Greek healthcare landscape has witnessed significant transformation, with the private sector experiencing substantial expansion amid the nation's shift toward privatization. Private medical facilities have maintained their standards and continued to invest in modern equipment and infrastructure.

Private hospitals and clinics typically have shorter wait times, and amenities that might be lacking in public hospitals. Many expats and tourists prefer private healthcare for these reasons, as well as the greater likelihood of finding English-speaking staff.

However, private healthcare services come at a premium. Consultation fees, treatments, and procedures in private facilities are considerably higher compared to public hospitals. For this reason, we recommend expats who opt for private healthcare in Greece should have private health insurance.

The right insurance policy can offer extensive coverage for various medical treatments, hospitalizations, and specialized procedures, to give peace of mind and financial security, making private healthcare both accessible and affordable for international residents and visitors.

Private Health Insurance in Greece

Private health insurance in Greece offers varying levels of coverage to meet different healthcare needs and budgets. Basic plans typically cover essential services such as:

• Hospital treatment
• Emergency care
• General practitioner visits
• Specialist consultations
• Basic diagnostic tests
• Prescription medications

More comprehensive premium plans extend coverage to include:

• Advanced diagnostic procedures
• Dental and vision care
• Mental health services
• Alternative therapies
• Maternity care
• Medical evacuation

For expats living in Greece, private health insurance offers distinct advantages. It provides access to private healthcare facilities with shorter waiting times and English-speaking medical staff. These facilities typically feature modern equipment and offer a wider choice of specialists.

From a financial perspective, expat health insurance protects against potentially high medical costs and makes healthcare expenses more predictable. Many policies also include preventive care and may offer international coverage, which is particularly valuable for mobile expats.

Recommended Private Hospitals in Greece

1. Hygeia Hospital, Athens
   Erythrou Stavrou 4, Marousi 151 23, Athens
   +30 210 686 7000
2. Metropolitan Hospital, Athens
   Ethnarchou Makariou 9 & El. Venizelou 1, Neo Faliro 185 47, Piraeus
   +30 210 480 9000
3. Interbalkan Medical Center, Thessaloniki
   Asklipiou 10, Pylaia 555 35, Thessaloniki
   +30 231 040 0000
4. Iaso General Hospital, Athens
   Leof. Mesogeion 264, Cholargos 155 62, Athens
   +30 210 620 0000
5. Mediterraneo Hospital, Athens
   Ilias 8-12, Glyfada 166 75, Athens
   +30 210 911 7000

Can Expats Use an EHIC Card in Greece?

Temporary visitors to Greece from the EU/EEA/Switzerland can receive discounted, or free healthcare through their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), as per the agreement between their country and Greece.

EHIC doesn’t cover certain healthcare costs such as medical transport back to your home country, mountain rescue, or private treatment. Those without an EHIC and visitors from outside the EU will need to purchase private health insurance for Greece.

Best Private Health Insurance Providers for Expats in Greece

The best private health insurance providers for expats in Greece are cost-effective and customizable plans with comprehensive benefits and excellent worldwide coverage.

Expats can rest assured that their healthcare needs are met, and get peace of mind knowing that they will be able access to world-class healthcare facilities wherever they are in Greece, or virtually anywhere in the world

Pacific Prime has partnered with globally renowned and established international insurers in Greece, including:

1. Morgan Price
2. April International
3. Cigna
4. William Russell
5. NOW Health International

Find out more information about international health insurance plans these insurance providers offer and our full list of the 10 best private health insurance providers for expats.

Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Greece

When selecting a health insurance policy, you will have to be clear about your age, medical history, chosen level of coverage, deductible amount, and geographic coverage area. Consider optional add-ons and supplementary coverage, if needed.

These factors will influence your insurance premiums, so it’s crucial to carefully evaluate these factors against your healthcare needs and budget.

Before taking out a policy, ensure you are crystal clear about the below:

• Waiting periods for certain treatments
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• The network of healthcare providers
• Direct billing arrangements
• The claims process

International Insurance in Greece - Plans and Coverage

Pacific Prime has a wide selection of international insurers we partner with to offer plans for expats in Greece, such as Cigna, AXA, IMG, and more.

Cigna

Cigna’s international health insurance guarantees at least basic coverage for inpatient and outpatient care as well as dental coverage. The premium of the Silver plan, the lowest plan level that Cigna offers, starts at USD $177 monthly (for a 30-year-old female expat in Greece).

AXA

AXA offers a range of plan levels—Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus. These plans feature annual benefit limits from USD $160,000 to $8,000,000 with a low deductible, catering to various needs and budgets of expats living in Greece.

IMG

IMG offers top-rated international health insurance plans for expats in Greece featuring a high degree of customizability, quality member support, and mandatory prescription drug coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of coverage should I look for in an international health insurance plan for Greece?

Expats should consider plans that include comprehensive medical coverage, emergency evacuation, repatriation, outpatient care, hospitalization, prescription medications, and coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Are there specific requirements for expats regarding health insurance in Greece?

Expats may be required to have valid health insurance to obtain a residence permit. It's important to ensure the policy meets any local regulations and provides sufficient coverage.

How do I choose the right international health insurance provider for my needs in Greece?

Look for providers with a good reputation, positive customer reviews, and strong customer support. Consider factors such as network hospitals, claim processes, coverage limits, and whether they offer multilingual support.

Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Many expats chose to secure international health insurance in Greece as it protects them from costly medical bills and offers them the private option when seeking medical attention.

There are so many health insurance plans available out there, but Pacific Prime’s team of insurance experts is here to help. Our advisors offer impartial advice to help you find the best plan for your budget and requirements. Talk to us today, or get quoted instantly!