Healthcare services and facilities for the elderly in Greece

Public Health Care for Expats in Greece

The Greek healthcare system, known as ESY, provides free healthcare to all Greek citizens and residents, EU citizens, and even foreigners.

Foreign residents and their families have access to free or low-cost public health care if they contribute to the Social Insurance Institute. As soon as foreigners start working, they will need to apply for national health insurance, which is administered by the IKA, and they will be issued a social security card called AMKA. Medical care by IKA-approved doctors is usually free, although patients are required to pay a fee for the prescribed medication

Overview of Private Healthcare in Greece

Greeks are not entirely satisfied with publicly offered services that can be transferred to the private sector, especially in the case of primary health care. Private healthcare facilities in Greece are considered superior to public options, as they often have newer equipment and shorter waiting times.

Foreigners who have a Greek golden visa, or work in Greece and make regular contributions to social security, can enjoy full health care benefits or subsidies. Private health insurance covers bills that are not covered by the government.

The private sector provides primary health care services, including private practice physicians and outpatient care. A doctor’s visit from a private clinic will cost between €60 and €150.

Many patients prefer to go to Athens hospitals or large university hospitals to access higher-quality services and care, as regional hospitals are often understaffed and lack technology. Foreigners who want to use a private hospital in Greece can choose to purchase private healthcare insurance, as they will have to bear the full cost of their treatment at a private facility.

Healthcare services and facilities for the elderly in Greece

Greece has a comprehensive healthcare system, which includes a wide range of healthcare services and facilities for the elderly. Here is some important information:

National Health System (ESY)

Provide basic health care to all citizens and residents, including the elderly.

Services include medical examinations, hospitalizations, medicines, tests, and some specialist services.

Seniors can enjoy special incentives and supports in the ESY system.

Example: AHEPA University Hospital, Greece

Day Healthcare Center

• Provide medical, social, and supportive care for seniors during the day.
• Help seniors maintain independence and avoid isolation.
• Provides recreational, therapeutic and rehabilitation activities.

Example: Day Care Center “Ilios” in Athens, Greece

Nursing homes

• Providing long-term care to older adults who are unable to take care of themselves.
• Provide accommodation, dining, medical care and recreational activities.
• There are different types of nursing homes, from basic to advanced, to meet the needs of the elderly.

Examples: Nursing Home “Orizontes” in Thessalonikim, Greece, Activity Center for the Elderly “Nea Zoi” in Heraklion

Home Care

• Provide medical care and home support to the elderly.
• This includes services such as examinations, treatments, personal care, and assistance with daily activities.
• Help the elderly live in a familiar and comfortable environment.

Example: Home care “Kivotos” in Patrasm, Greece

Other services

• Medical transport services.
• Nutrition support programs.
• Counseling and psychological support services.
• Clubs and activity centers for the elderly.

The cost of healthcare for the elderly in Greece can vary depending on the type of service and facility. Seniors should carefully research the health care options available and choose the ones that fit their needs and financial capabilities.

The best hospitals in Greece

Hospitals in Greece are divided into two categories: general and specialty. General hospitals have multiple specialized departments for most medical cases, while specialty hospitals focus on one specialty. Many healthcare professionals in Greece speak English, as so many of them have been trained in North America or the United Kingdom. Healthcare professionals in private hospitals are more likely to speak English than in public hospitals.

• AHEPA Kiriakidi University Hospital 1, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece +30 231 330 3110
• Agia Children’s Hospital Sofia Thivon 1, Athina 115 27, Greece +30 21 3201 3000
• Aiginiteio Leof University Hospital. Vasilissis Sofias 72, Athina 115 28, Greece +30 21 0728 9400
• Corfu General Clinic Corfu 491 00, Greece +30 2661 036044
• Mediterraneo Ilias Hospital 8-12, Glifada 166 75, Greece +30 21 0911 7000
• Santorini Karterados Hospital, Santorini, 84700, Greece +30 2286 035300
• Kefalonia Souidias General Hospital 17, GR28100, Greece +30 26713 61100