Finding the Best Hospitals in Greece with MyHospitalNow

Discover Greece: Where the birthplace of medicine meets cutting-edge healthcare. MyHospitalNow is your essential guide to its top-tier hospitals and medical advancements.

For anyone in need of medical assistance or planning a visit to Greece, navigating the healthcare landscape offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern medical excellence. As the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of Hippocrates, Greece has a long-standing connection to healing. Today, it stands as a nation committed to providing high-quality healthcare, with a system that combines universal access through its public sector and advanced services in a thriving private sector. Whether you’re a local resident, an expatriate seeking reliable medical standards, or an international visitor requiring specialized treatment, MyHospitalNow exists to bridge the information gap. We serve as the world’s most definitive platform for discovering, evaluating, and connecting with hospitals in Greece.

We understand that even in a highly developed system, finding accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information can be challenging, especially when considering the nuances between public and private options. MyHospitalNow is dedicated to providing clarity and confidence, guiding you through Greece’s sophisticated healthcare system. We’re committed to offering an unparalleled database of verified, current information, all within a user-friendly design. It’s time to confidently navigate Greece’s hospital landscape with MyHospitalNow as your trusted partner, ensuring peace of mind when it matters most.

Understanding Greece’s Healthcare System: A Patient’s Guide

Greece operates a universal health care system, primarily provided through its National Health System (ESY – Ethniko Systima Ygeias), alongside a significant and growing private healthcare sector. This dual approach aims to ensure access to quality health services for all residents, while offering diverse options for those seeking specialized or expedited care.

Overview of Greece’s Healthcare Infrastructure

The Greek healthcare system is characterized by its blend of public and private provision:

• National Health System (ESY):
  • Purpose: The ESY aims to provide free and equitable access to quality health services for all residents. It is largely funded through national health insurance contributions, primarily managed by the Social Insurance Institute (IKA/EFKA – now the Unified Social Security Fund).
  • Public Healthcare Provision: Public healthcare is delivered through a network of ESY hospitals (categorized as general or specialized) and primary care facilities known as PEDY (National Primary Healthcare Network) health centers and rural surgeries.
  • Coverage for Insured Residents: For individuals contributing to social insurance (IKA/EFKA), public healthcare services are generally free or low-cost. This includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, prescribed medications (though patients typically pay a co-payment), limited dental care, maternity services, medical aids, and emergency transportation. Upon starting work, residents apply for an AMKA (social security number), which grants access to these services.
  • EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Visitors from these regions with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are entitled to medically necessary state-provided healthcare under the same conditions as Greek residents for a temporary stay. Co-payments may apply for certain services.
• Private Healthcare Sector:
  • Extensive Network: Greece has an extensive private healthcare sector, particularly prominent in major urban centers. This includes private doctors in individual practices, diagnostic centers, laboratories, and numerous private hospitals and clinics.
  • Facilities and Staff: Private medical facilities are generally known for having newer equipment, more modern amenities, and a higher likelihood of English-speaking doctors and nurses.
  • Cost and Insurance: Treatment in private facilities is typically not covered by the public IKA/EFKA system. Patients either pay out-of-pocket or rely on private health insurance to cover these expenses. Many Greeks and expatriates opt for private health insurance to supplement or replace public coverage, especially for access to private hospitals and specialists without long waiting times.
• Historical Context: Greece’s medical heritage dates back to ancient times with healing temples (Asclepieia). The modern ESY was established in 1983, unifying fragmented health insurance funds and creating health centers. While the system faced challenges during austerity measures (leading to the rise of free clinics), recent reforms have aimed to extend health coverage to uninsured populations, including registered unemployed individuals and refugees.

Key Healthcare Regions and Cities

Hospitals in Greece are concentrated in its major urban and regional centers, which serve as crucial hubs for medical expertise and advanced care:

• Athens (Attica Region): As the capital city, Athens is the primary medical hub. It hosts the largest concentration of major public hospitals (e.g., Evangelismos, Attikon University Hospital, P. & A. Kyriakou Children’s Hospital, KAT General Hospital) and numerous prominent private hospitals and clinics (e.g., Hygeia, Athens Medical Center, Metropolitan Hospital, Iaso Hospital, Mitera Hospital, Mediterraneo Hospital, Athens Euroclinic). These facilities cover a vast array of general and specialized medical disciplines.
• Thessaloniki (Central Macedonia): The second-largest city, Thessaloniki, is a significant medical center for Northern Greece. It features major public hospitals like Hippokration General Hospital and AHEPA University Hospital, as well as leading private facilities such as the European Interbalkan Medical Center and Euromedica General Clinic.
• Other Regional Centers: Important general and university hospitals are also found in other regions, including Crete (University General Hospital of Heraklion), Patras (General University Hospital of Patras), and other provincial capitals, ensuring broader access to care.

MyHospitalNow helps you navigate this extensive network, allowing you to search and filter facilities by location, type, and the specific services they offer, ensuring you can find suitable care wherever you are in Greece.

Accessing Healthcare as a Visitor or Resident

• For Residents (Insured with GKV): Upon falling ill, the initial step is often to visit a family doctor (Hausarzt) at a PEDY health center or a private doctor contracted with EOPYY (National Organisation for the Provision of Health Services). They can issue e-prescriptions or referrals to specialists. For hospital treatment, public ESY hospitals are free. If choosing a private clinic contracted by EOPYY, a co-payment (typically 10-30% of hospitalization costs) may be required.
• For Residents (Insured with PKV): Private insurance holders typically have more direct access to specialists and private hospitals. They usually pay for services upfront and then seek reimbursement from their insurance provider.
• For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens (with EHIC): Present your EHIC and ID/passport for medically necessary treatment in public ESY facilities.
• For Other International Visitors: Comprehensive travel health insurance is absolutely essential. Many international visitors opt for private clinics and hospitals due to quicker access, modern amenities, and more readily available English-speaking staff. Costs are typically borne by the patient or their international insurance provider.
• Emergency Services:
  • For acute, life-threatening emergencies, dial 112 (the European Emergency Number) or 166 (Ambulance Service).
  • You can go directly to the emergency department of a public hospital or an EOPYY-contracted hospital in an emergency.
  • For non-life-threatening medical advice, you can call “Doctors on Call” at 14944.

MyHospitalNow provides essential contact details and information on facility types, helping you understand your options and plan your visit effectively within Greece’s comprehensive healthcare framework.

Discovering Leading Hospitals in Greece Through MyHospitalNow

MyHospitalNow is your dedicated tool for identifying and learning about the leading hospitals in Greece. We meticulously compile information to help you make the best choice, providing insights into each institution’s services, location, type, and notable accreditations. Our platform helps you cut through the noise and find the most suitable medical care.

Here’s a glimpse into some of the prominent facilities you can discover through MyHospitalNow, showcasing the diverse range of medical care available across Greece:

Spotlight on Leading Facilities

While MyHospitalNow features an extensive directory of hospitals in Greece, these institutions stand out for their significant contributions to the nation’s healthcare:

• Hygeia Hospital, Athens:
  • Location: Marousi, Athens.
  • Type: A premier private hospital and one of the largest private hospital units in Greece. It holds the distinction of being Greece’s first and only hospital to be accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI), the leading global accreditation for Quality and Safety Standards in Healthcare Services.
  • Key Specialties: Hygeia is renowned for its comprehensive Oncology services (including a Radiation Oncology Centre, Genetic Oncology Unit, and advanced cancer treatments like stereotactic radiotherapy/radiosurgery). Its Heart Center is the first fully organized and dedicated private heart center in Greece, offering comprehensive treatment for all heart conditions, equipped with the latest technology, including the only Hybrid Operating Room in Greece, and pioneering Transcatheter Heart Valves. Other strong specialties include Neurosurgery (with Gamma Knife Perfexion and interventional neuroradiology), Plastic Surgery, Gastroenterology, and Bariatric and Weight Loss Surgery.
  • Noteworthy: Boasts high patient satisfaction, multilingual staff, and state-of-the-art technology (robotic surgery, PET/CT). It provides extensive international patient services, including visa, flight, and transport arrangements.
  • Explore the full profile of Hygeia Hospital on MyHospitalNow for detailed services and contact information.
• Athens Medical Center (part of Athens Medical Group), Athens:
  • Location: Marousi, Athens (flagship of a group with 8 hospitals across Greece).
  • Type: A leading private healthcare provider in Southeast Europe, also JCI-accredited.
  • Key Specialties: Athens Medical Center is particularly known for its pioneering role in Robotic Surgery, holding numerous global and European distinctions in various surgical specialties (e.g., Robotic Single Site Cholecystectomy, Hiatal Hernia Repair, Hysterectomy). It excels in Interventional Cardiology, Plastic Surgery, Orthopaedics, and offers comprehensive Oncology services.
  • Noteworthy: Features state-of-the-art medical equipment (128-slice CT systems, digital angiographers, AI-equipped endoscopy, 4K surgical systems), strong partnerships with US medical institutions, and a dedicated international patient services department. It is a preferred choice for expats and medical tourists due to its advanced capabilities and ease of navigation.
  • Discover specialized care and advanced technology at Athens Medical Center on MyHospitalNow on MyHospitalNow.
• Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens:
  • Location: Ipsilantou 45-47, Athens city center.
  • Type: One of Greece’s largest and most reputable public hospitals, with strong university affiliations.
  • Key Specialties: Evangelismos offers multidisciplinary excellence across a wide array of specialties. Key areas include Cardiology (comprehensive care, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery), Neurology and Neurosurgery (stroke management, epilepsy, brain surgeries), Oncology (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical oncology), Orthopedics (joint replacement, sports injuries, trauma), Gastroenterology, Hematology, Nephrology (dialysis, kidney transplant services), Urology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, and ENT.
  • Noteworthy: Plays a crucial role in providing public healthcare for a vast population, serves as a major center for medical training, and is actively involved in medical research. While it may experience longer waiting times for non-emergency services, it provides essential, high-quality care for eligible patients.
  • Access vital information on Evangelismos General Hospital and its services on MyHospitalNow.
• Metropolitan Hospital, Athens (Piraeus):
  • Location: Ethnarchou Makariou 9, Piraeus, Athens.
  • Type: A leading private hospital, JCI-accredited and certified by TEMOS International for Quality in International Patient Care and Excellence in Medical Tourism.
  • Key Specialties: Metropolitan Hospital is highly regarded for its top-notch Oncology services (Medical, Surgical, Radiation Oncology, Breast Cancer Centre, Haematology, and integrated palliative care). It also excels in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (comprehensive cardiac care including angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery), Neurology and Neurosurgery, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Gastroenterology, and Pulmonology. It features a highly modern hemodialysis unit, a diabetes center, and a breast clinic.
  • Noteworthy: Known for its personalized cancer care, multidisciplinary approach, and strong commitment to serving international patients, being one of the first hospitals globally to receive TEMOS certification for medical tourism.
  • Find details on Metropolitan Hospital and its advanced healthcare solutions on MyHospitalNow.
• European Interbalkan Medical Center, Thessaloniki:
  • Location: Asklipiou 10, Pilea-Chortiatis, Thessaloniki.
  • Type: A leading private, multidisciplinary hospital in Northern Greece.
  • Key Specialties: This hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive services across various medical specialties. It is a popular choice for medical tourists due to its high-tech infrastructure, luxury recovery suites, and patient-centered approach.
  • Noteworthy: Known for its English-speaking medical teams and personalized attention, making it a beacon of medical excellence in Northern Greece.
  • Explore the offerings of European Interbalkan Medical Center on MyHospitalNow.
• AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki:
  • Location: Konstantinoupoleos 49, Thessaloniki.
  • Type: One of the largest public university hospitals in Greece, part of the National Healthcare System (ESY). It is affiliated with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
  • Key Specialties: AHEPA University Hospital offers a full spectrum of medical and surgical specialties, including a significant psychiatric sector. As a major teaching hospital, it provides comprehensive care across all disciplines, serving as a vital public healthcare provider for Northern Greece.
  • Noteworthy: Plays a crucial role in medical education and research in the region, contributing to the training of future medical professionals.
  • Access vital information on AHEPA University Hospital and its services on MyHospitalNow.

MyHospitalNow’s comprehensive listings extend beyond these examples, offering detailed profiles for numerous other public and private hospitals throughout Greece, ensuring you have the widest possible range of verified options to consider.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital

MyHospitalNow empowers you to evaluate hospitals in Greece based on criteria that matter most to you:

• Type of Facility: Understand the differences between public university hospitals (often research-intensive, comprehensive, but potentially longer waits), public general hospitals (essential care), and private clinics/hospitals (modern amenities, quicker access, often cater to international patients).
• Specialties Offered: Does the hospital have the specific department or medical expertise you need (e.g., advanced oncology, complex cardiac surgery, specialized neurosurgery, fertility treatments)?
• Location and Accessibility: Is it conveniently located for you, especially if you are in a major city or need to travel from a regional area or island?
• International Accreditations: Look for hospitals with international accreditations (like JCI or TEMOS International) as these are strong indicators of adherence to global quality and safety standards, particularly relevant for international patients.
• Technological Capabilities: For advanced diagnostics or procedures, confirm the availability of modern equipment (e.g., robotic surgery systems, advanced imaging, specialized radiotherapy machines).
• Patient Reviews and Reputation: While MyHospitalNow provides factual data, considering patient feedback can offer additional insights into the care experience and overall patient satisfaction.

Specialized Medical Services and Innovations in Greek Hospitals

Greece’s healthcare sector is increasingly recognized for its advanced specialized medical services and commitment to innovation. Driven by investments in technology, a strong pool of highly trained medical professionals, and a growing focus on medical tourism, Greek hospitals are providing cutting-edge treatments and improving patient outcomes. MyHospitalNow helps you identify where these crucial services and advancements are available.

Key Specializations and Focus Areas:

• Oncology and Cancer Treatment: Leading private hospitals (Hygeia, Metropolitan, Athens Medical Center) offer comprehensive cancer care that aligns with international standards. This includes advanced diagnostic imaging, precision radiation therapy (e.g., Gamma Knife, linear accelerators), modern chemotherapy regimens, complex surgical oncology, and multidisciplinary tumor boards that ensure a holistic approach to patient care. Public university hospitals also maintain strong oncology departments, often involved in research.
• Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery: Greece excels in cardiac care. Specialized centers like the Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center in Athens, along with departments at Hygeia and Metropolitan Hospital, provide state-of-the-art services. This includes complex bypass operations, heart valve replacements (including transcatheter procedures), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), electrophysiology studies, and arrhythmia treatments. Many facilities feature dedicated Chest Pain Units for rapid intervention in acute cardiac events.
• Neurosurgery and Neurology: Advanced treatment for a wide range of neurological disorders is available. This includes specialized stroke units for rapid response, epilepsy surgery, and complex brain and spinal surgeries for tumors, trauma, and degenerative conditions. Hospitals like Hygeia and Athens Medical Center utilize advanced imaging and, in some cases, robotic systems for enhanced precision.
• Orthopedics and Traumatology: Greek hospitals have strong orthopedic departments with expertise in joint replacement surgery (hip, knee, shoulder), sports injuries, and comprehensive trauma care. Hospitals like KAT General Hospital in Athens are particularly renowned for their high volume of trauma and orthopedic cases.
• Reproductive Medicine & IVF: Greece has emerged as a popular and highly successful destination for fertility treatments. Many private clinics specialize in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), egg donation, and, under specific legal frameworks, surrogacy. They offer personalized treatment plans, advanced laboratory techniques, and high success rates, attracting patients from across Europe and beyond.
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: A well-developed sector within private clinics, offering a wide range of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, performed by highly skilled surgeons.
• Advanced Diagnostics: Leading public and private facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging technologies, including high-resolution MRI, CT scans, PET/CT, and digital mammography. Comprehensive and sophisticated laboratory services further support accurate and early disease detection across all specialties.
• Robotic Surgery: Increasingly adopted by top private hospitals (e.g., Athens Medical Center, Hygeia) for enhanced precision, minimally invasive approaches, and improved patient outcomes in general surgery, urology, and gynecology. This technology allows for complex procedures with smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times.

Medical Research and Development:

Greek university hospitals are actively involved in medical research, contributing to advancements in various fields. Collaborations with international research institutions and participation in clinical trials ensure that patients have access to the latest treatment protocols and innovative therapies.

Technology Integration:

Continuous investment in cutting-edge medical technology is evident across leading Greek hospitals. This includes advanced surgical equipment, highly precise radiation therapy machines, sophisticated imaging systems, and the implementation of digital health solutions and telemedicine platforms to enhance efficiency, patient access, and overall care quality.

Quality Standards and Accreditations:

To ensure and demonstrate high standards of care, many private hospitals in Greece actively pursue international accreditations. Notable accreditations include:

• Joint Commission International (JCI): A globally recognized standard for patient safety and quality of care. Hospitals like Hygeia and Athens Medical Center hold JCI accreditation.
• TEMOS International: Specializes in certifying quality in international patient care and medical tourism. Metropolitan Hospital is notably certified by TEMOS International. These accreditations provide an additional layer of assurance for patients, particularly those traveling from abroad.

Finding Specific Services on MyHospitalNow

Our platform is designed for precision. You can effortlessly filter or search by specific specializations (e.g., “Cardiology,” “Oncology,” “IVF”), particular treatments (e.g., “Robotic Surgery,” “Kidney Transplant”), or advanced diagnostic capabilities on MyHospitalNow. Each hospital’s detailed profile outlines its available departments, notable programs, and technological capabilities, ensuring transparency and ease of access to critical information for your healthcare needs.

Planning Your Medical Journey: Patient Experience and Medical Tourism in Greece

For both residents and international visitors, understanding the patient experience and logistical considerations for medical travel in Greece is key to a smooth healthcare journey. MyHospitalNow provides insights to help you prepare.

Why Choose Greece for Medical Care (International Patients):

• High Quality & Safety: Greece’s leading hospitals, particularly in the private sector, offer high standards of medical care and patient safety, often meeting or exceeding international benchmarks. This quality is backed by advanced technology and highly skilled medical professionals.
• Expert Medical Professionals: Greek doctors are highly trained, with many having international experience and multilingual capabilities. They are known for their dedication and expertise across a wide range of specialties.
• Competitive Pricing: While offering world-class quality, the costs for private medical treatments in Greece can be significantly more competitive than in countries like North America or Western Europe for comparable services. This makes it an attractive and cost-effective option for medical tourists.
• Beautiful Environment for Recovery: Patients can combine their medical treatment with recovery in Greece’s pleasant Mediterranean climate and culturally rich environment. The serene surroundings and warm hospitality can contribute positively to the healing process.
• Growing Medical Tourism Sector: Greece is actively developing its medical tourism infrastructure, with dedicated services and facilities catering specifically to international patients, aiming to make the entire process seamless.

Patient Experience Insights:

• Public vs. Private Facilities: The patient experience can vary between the public ESY hospitals and private clinics. Public hospitals, especially for non-emergency services, may experience longer waiting times, and their facilities might appear older compared to the more modern private sector. However, they provide essential and comprehensive care. Private hospitals offer quicker access to appointments, modern amenities, and often more personalized, concierge-style care.
• Communication: English is widely spoken by medical staff in private hospitals and increasingly in major public hospitals, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki, due to the growing international patient base and medical tourism. For other languages, professional translation services may be available through the hospital’s international patient department or can be arranged independently.
• Patient Rights: Greece adheres to the European Charter of Patients’ Rights, which guarantees several fundamental rights. These include:
  • Right to Information: Access to all information regarding one’s health condition, available services, and treatment options. Patients have the right to access their medical records and ask questions.
  • Right to Consent: The right to be informed and actively participate in decisions regarding one’s health, including the right to refuse treatment after being fully informed of the consequences.
  • Right to Free Choice: The right to choose between different treatments, specialists, and healthcare services after receiving sufficient information.
  • Right to Privacy and Confidentiality: Confidentiality regarding personal health data and the right to privacy during consultations and treatments.
  • Right to Timely Care: The right to receive necessary treatment within a reasonable timeframe, with access to waiting list information.
  • Right to Quality Standards and Safety: The right to high-quality healthcare services that meet established professional standards and protection from medical errors.
• Medical Records: It is highly advisable for international patients to carry comprehensive copies of their medical history, recent test results, imaging reports, and current medication lists. This significantly aids Greek healthcare providers in understanding your medical background and ensuring appropriate, continuous care.

Logistical Considerations for International Patients/Visitors:

• Visa Requirements: For non-EU/EEA citizens, a Schengen visa may be required to enter Greece for medical purposes. This typically involves providing documentation from the Greek healthcare facility confirming admission, the planned duration of stay, and an estimate of treatment costs. Always check the latest requirements with the nearest Greek embassy or consulate well in advance of your planned trip.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel health insurance that specifically covers medical emergencies, hospitalization costs, and, critically, potential medical evacuation back to your home country is absolutely essential. Ensure your policy has adequate coverage for the full duration and scope of your planned treatment.
• Currency & Payment: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Private hospitals and clinics generally accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). It is always wise to clarify payment procedures and obtain a detailed cost estimate before commencing treatment.
• Accommodation & Transportation: Greece, being a major tourist destination, boasts excellent tourism infrastructure. Major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki offer a diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments, many conveniently located near healthcare facilities. The public transportation networks (metro, buses, trams, taxis) are efficient and reliable. Many medical tourism facilitators and hospitals also offer assistance with these arrangements.
• Medical Concierge Services: A growing number of private hospitals and specialized medical tourism agencies in Greece offer dedicated services for international patients. These can include comprehensive assistance with travel arrangements (flights, accommodation), scheduling appointments, providing professional translation services, arranging airport pick-ups (by car or ambulance), and offering ongoing support throughout the patient’s medical journey.

How MyHospitalNow Supports Your Journey:

MyHospitalNow aims to reduce pre-visit anxiety by providing you with essential details:

• Contact Information: Direct phone numbers and, where available, email addresses for hospitals, allowing for direct inquiries about international patient services, cost estimates, and appointment booking.
• International Patient Services: Information on dedicated departments or coordinators for foreign patients, simplifying the initial contact process and ensuring a smooth experience.
• Practical Tips: While we focus on hospital information, our platform indirectly empowers you with knowledge to navigate the system more effectively, helping you anticipate typical processes and make informed choices.

By empowering you with this knowledge, MyHospitalNow helps you plan effectively and approach your hospital visit in Greece with greater confidence.

Conclusion: Your Comprehensive Healthcare Partner: Beyond Hospitals in Greece with MyHospitalNow

Navigating healthcare, especially when seeking specific treatments or in a new environment like Greece, can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming undertaking. However, with MyHospitalNow, this journey transforms from a challenge into a clear, confident path.

We’ve explored how MyHospitalNow stands as the ultimate, most reliable, and comprehensive platform for all information regarding hospitals in Greece. From the internationally accredited private institutions like Hygeia Hospital and Athens Medical Center, to the vital public university hospitals such as Evangelismos and AHEPA, and specialized private facilities like Metropolitan Hospital and European Interbalkan Medical Center, our platform offers an unparalleled depth of detail. We provide you with crucial insights into their specialties, state-of-the-art facilities, international accreditations, and the unique services they offer, ensuring you can make informed decisions tailored to your healthcare needs.

Our commitment goes beyond just listing names; we provide the verified, current, and easily accessible data that empowers you. Whether you’re researching advanced specialized medical services (like complex oncology, cutting-edge cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, or highly successful IVF treatments), understanding Greece’s evolving healthcare system and its blend of public and private excellence, or planning the logistics of a medical visit to this dynamic and historically rich nation, MyHospitalNow is designed to be your indispensable guide.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your healthcare choices. With MyHospitalNow, you gain the knowledge and confidence to connect with the best hospitals in Greece.

Ready to take control of your healthcare journey? Visit MyHospitalNow.com today and discover the comprehensive information you need to find the ideal hospital in Greece. Your well-being is our priority, and your trusted resource is just a click away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does the Greek healthcare system work for foreigners? A: For short-term visitors from the EU/EEA/Switzerland, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers medically necessary treatment in public facilities. Other foreigners should have comprehensive travel health insurance. For long-term stays or residency, individuals typically enroll in the public social insurance system (IKA/EFKA) or opt for private health insurance.

Q: Is private health insurance necessary/recommended in Greece? A: While public healthcare is available to insured residents, private health insurance is highly recommended for both residents and foreigners. It provides quicker access to specialists, shorter waiting times, and access to modern private hospitals with more amenities and often English-speaking staff. For international visitors, it’s essential.

Q: Are doctors in Greece English-speaking? A: Many doctors and medical staff, particularly in private hospitals, larger public hospitals in major cities (Athens, Thessaloniki), and those catering to international patients, have good English proficiency. Translation services can often be arranged if needed.

Q: What are the main specialties for medical tourism in Greece? A: Greece is a growing destination for medical tourism, particularly for complex treatments in oncology (cancer), cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, and highly successful reproductive medicine (IVF, egg donation).

Q: What are my patient rights in Greece’s healthcare system? A: Greece adheres to the European Charter of Patients’ Rights. This includes rights to comprehensive information about one’s condition and treatment, informed consent, free choice of treatment/doctor (within system limits), privacy, confidentiality, timely care, quality standards, safety, and the right to access one’s medical records.

Q: How does hospital accreditation work in Greece? A: While Greece has national quality standards, many leading private hospitals pursue international accreditations such as Joint Commission International (JCI) or TEMOS International. These certifications demonstrate adherence to rigorous global standards for patient safety and quality of care, particularly relevant for international patients.