Healthcare in Athens and Crete: A Complete Guide for Expats and Travelers

Healthcare in Athens and Crete: A Complete Guide for Expats and Travelers

Athens and Crete are two of Greece’s most important locations, offering a mix of public and private healthcare services. Whether you are a resident, expat, or traveler, understanding the Greek healthcare system will help you access medical care efficiently.

For English-speaking medical assistance, Doctor Athens provides rapid home, hotel, and office visits within 60 minutes in both Athens and Crete. If you prefer telehealth consultations, TravelDoctor EU offers virtual medical services across Greece and internationally.

Overview of Healthcare in Athens and Crete

Public Healthcare (ESY)

Greece’s National Health System (ESY) provides free or low-cost medical care to residents who contribute to social security (IKA). Public healthcare services in Athens and Crete include:

• Primary healthcare at public health centers and clinics

• Specialist care at general and specialized hospitals

• Emergency medical treatment at public hospitals

• Diagnostic tests, maternity care, and prescription medications

To access public healthcare in Greece, expats must register for IKA insurance and obtain a social security number (AMKA). EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while UK citizens can use the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for short-term coverage.

Private Healthcare in Athens and Crete

Many expats and travelers in Greece choose private healthcare due to:

• Shorter wait times for appointments

• High-quality facilities with modern medical technology

• English-speaking doctors and specialists

Private Clinics and Hospitals in Athens and Crete

Athens and Crete both have well-equipped private hospitals and medical centers, particularly in Athens, Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos. These facilities provide:

• General medical consultations

• Specialist treatments

• Diagnostic imaging, laboratory tests, and emergency care

Since private healthcare is not covered by IKA, many residents and long-term visitors purchase private health insurance to reduce costs.

For immediate private medical care, Doctor Athens offers:

• Common illness treatments

• Allergy and infection management

• Fracture and injury assessments

• Vaccinations and pregnancy tests

• Chronic disease consultations

• Home and hotel visits within 60 minutes

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Athens and Crete

If you need a doctor who speaks English in Athens or Crete, you can:

• Visit a private clinic specializing in expat healthcare

• Contact your embassy for a list of recommended medical professionals

• Use Doctor Athens for urgent English-speaking medical care

• Schedule a virtual consultation via TravelDoctor EU

Pharmacies and Medications in Athens and Crete

Where to Get Medication in Greece

Pharmacies (φαρμακεία, “farmakeia”) are widely available in Athens and Crete, providing prescription and over-the-counter medications. Greek pharmacists are highly trained and can offer medical advice for minor health concerns.

• Opening Hours: Most pharmacies operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

• Emergency Pharmacies: If a pharmacy is closed, there will be a sign on the door indicating the nearest open pharmacy

Emergency Medical Services in Athens and Crete

Public Ambulance Services (EKAV)

Athens and Crete have public ambulance services (EKAV), but response times may be slower in rural areas or during peak travel seasons.

Emergency Contact Numbers in Greece

• 166 – Public ambulance service (EKAV)

• 112 – European emergency number (for English-speaking assistance)

If public ambulance services are delayed or unavailable, private ambulances or taxis may be used for emergency transport.

Top Healthcare Providers in Greece and Europe

For in-person medical care, you can visit trusted healthcare providers in Greece and across Europe:

• Athens & Crete, Greece: Doctor Athens

• Paris, France: American Medical Center Paris

• Budapest, Hungary: Expat Medical

• Berlin, Germany: Arzt Besuche

• Bucharest, Romania: Expat Medical Bucharest

• Krakow, Poland: Medicus Specialist Private Practice

• Argentina & Mexico: Travel Doctor ES

For telehealth consultations, TravelDoctor EU provides virtual medical assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can foreigners access public healthcare in Athens and Crete?

Yes, expats who contribute to IKA can receive free or low-cost healthcare. EU citizens can use their EHIC, while UK citizens can use the GHIC.

Is private healthcare expensive in Athens and Crete?

Private healthcare in Greece is more expensive than public care but offers faster appointments and English-speaking doctors. Many residents purchase private health insurance to lower costs.

Where can I find an English-speaking doctor in Athens or Crete?

You can visit private clinics that cater to expats, check with your embassy, or use Doctor Athens for rapid medical care.

How do I get prescription medication in Greece?

You can visit pharmacies (φαρμακεία), which are widely available and well-stocked. Some pharmacies operate 24/7.

What number do I call for a medical emergency in Athens or Crete?

Dial 166 for a public ambulance or 112 for English-speaking emergency services.

Conclusion

Both Athens and Crete offer a reliable healthcare system, with public, private, and telehealth options. Whether you need a routine checkup, prescription, or emergency medical attention, quality healthcare is available throughout Greece’s capital and largest island.