Healthcare in Athens 2026 — Expat Guide to Greek Healthcare and Medical Insurance
Everything expats and newcomers need to know about healthcare in Athens in 2026 — how Greece's healthcare system works, what private health insurance costs, how to access medical care as a foreigner, and key Athens hospitals and clinics.
This article was generated by AI from the linked public sources. The Daily Athens is independently owned and covers Athens news free from advertiser or sponsor influence. Read our editorial standards →
Greece has a dual healthcare system: a public sector (EOPYY — National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision, funded by social insurance contributions) and a private sector that many expats and middle-class Greeks prefer for shorter waiting times and higher quality facilities. EU citizens can access Greek public healthcare using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary visits; non-EU expats typically rely on private health insurance or out-of-pocket private care. This guide covers healthcare in Athens in 2026.
Greek Public Healthcare (EOPYY)
Access to public healthcare requires registration with EOPYY, which in turn requires a Greek tax number (AFM) and social insurance number (AMKA); obtaining AMKA as a foreign resident is now relatively streamlined
Public healthcare quality in Greece has improved but can involve waiting times; Athens' public hospitals include Evangelismos General Hospital, Laiko Hospital, and Attikon University Hospital
Public sector GP visits and prescriptions are significantly subsidised or free for registered EOPYY contributors
Private Healthcare in Athens
Athens has excellent private medical facilities; Hygeia Hospital, Metropolitan Hospital, and Mitera Maternity Hospital are among the most internationally regarded
Private GP appointment costs: €50-€150 per consultation
Private health insurance: International health insurance plans from major providers (Allianz, Cigna, Aetna International, AXA, Bupa International) are available from approximately €100-€300+/month for comprehensive coverage depending on age and coverage level
Emergency Care in Athens
Emergency number: 112 (EU) or 166 (Greek ambulance — EKAB)
Athens' major private hospitals with 24-hour emergency departments include Hygeia and Metropolitan Hospital
Practical Tips for Healthcare in Athens
Many Athens doctors trained in the UK, US, or Germany and speak excellent English; ask for English-speaking doctors when booking private appointments
Pharmacies (farmakeio) in Athens are highly accessible and can provide significant advice and over-the-counter medications; Greek pharmacists are well-trained and authorised to assist with minor conditions
This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.
Covering wellness in Athens. This article was generated by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a human editor before publishing. See our editorial standards.
