Navigating the Greek Healthcare System: A Complete Guide to Prescriptions and Medications for Expats

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Table of Contents

• Understanding the Greek Healthcare System
• The Prescription Process in Greece
• Finding and Purchasing Medications
• Health Insurance and Medication Coverage
• Overcoming Language Barriers
• Special Considerations for Specific Medications
• Practical Tips for Expats
• Real Expat Experiences
• Your Personal Healthcare Roadmap in Greece
• Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the Greek Healthcare System

Relocating to Greece means embracing not just the Mediterranean lifestyle, but also adapting to a healthcare system that might differ significantly from what you’re accustomed to. Greece operates a dual healthcare system with both public and private options, each with distinct implications for how you’ll access prescriptions and medications.

Public Healthcare: EOPYY

The Greek National Organization for Healthcare Services Provision (EOPYY) forms the backbone of the public healthcare system. If you’re legally employed in Greece, you’ll contribute to social security, which includes healthcare coverage. This grants you access to public healthcare services, including prescription medications at reduced costs.

But here’s the straight talk: While comprehensive in theory, the public system has faced challenges following Greece’s economic crisis. Wait times can be long, and bureaucracy might feel overwhelming, especially when you’re still learning the ropes as an expat.

Private Healthcare Options

Many expats in Greece—particularly those from countries with more streamlined healthcare systems—opt for private healthcare alongside the public option. Private clinics and hospitals typically offer more immediate service, often with English-speaking staff (a significant advantage in your early days in Greece).

Quick scenario: Imagine you’ve just moved to Athens and need a prescription refill for a medication you’ve been taking long-term. Through private healthcare, you could likely secure an appointment within days, receive your prescription, and have it filled at a local pharmacy with minimal hassle. The trade-off? You’re looking at higher out-of-pocket costs unless you have comprehensive private insurance.

The Prescription Process in Greece

Getting a prescription in Greece involves several steps that might differ from the process in your home country. Understanding this system is crucial for ensuring continuous access to your medications.

Electronic Prescription System (e-Prescription)

Greece has modernized its prescription system through an electronic platform called “e-Prescription” (e-Συνταγογράφηση). This system, implemented in 2010, aims to streamline the prescription process and reduce medication fraud.

When you visit a doctor in Greece, they’ll input your prescription directly into this electronic system. You’ll receive a printed copy with a unique barcode that the pharmacist will scan when dispensing your medication. This creates a digital record of your prescriptions, making future refills potentially easier.

Pro Tip: Always keep copies of your prescription history, especially for chronic medications. This documentation proves invaluable when seeing new doctors or during emergency situations.

Prescription Validity Period

Unlike some countries where prescriptions might be valid for months, Greek prescriptions typically have specific validity periods:

• Regular prescriptions: Usually valid for 5-7 days
• Chronic condition medications: Can be prescribed for up to 3 months, but dispensed monthly
• Renewable prescriptions: Some chronic medications can be set up with automatic renewals

This shorter validity window means you’ll need to plan ahead, particularly if you’re traveling within or outside Greece. Don’t wait until your last pill to seek a refill—aim to see your doctor at least a week before you’ll run out of medication.

Finding and Purchasing Medications

Once you have your prescription in hand, the next step is finding and purchasing your medications. Greek pharmacies (φαρμακεία) are plentiful and easily identifiable by the green cross displayed outside.

Greek Pharmacies: Operations and Hours

Pharmacies in Greece offer more personalized service than you might expect. The pharmacist often serves as a first-line healthcare advisor, and many Greeks consult their pharmacist before seeing a doctor for minor ailments.

Standard operating hours are typically:

• Weekdays: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
• Sundays: Closed

However, pharmacy hours can vary by location and season. Tourist areas often have extended hours during summer, while pharmacies in smaller towns might close for the afternoon siesta and not reopen in the evening.

After-hours access: Each area has designated pharmacies (φαρμακεία εφημερίας) that operate during nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotation basis. These “on-duty” pharmacies are listed in local newspapers, posted on pharmacy doors, and available online through the Greek Pharmaceutical Association website.

Medication Availability and Equivalents

While Greece generally offers good availability of common medications, you might discover that your specific brand isn’t sold in Greece. In such cases, pharmacists can typically recommend Greek or European equivalents with the same active ingredients.

A real-world example: Sarah, an American expat living in Thessaloniki, regularly took Advil for occasional headaches. When she couldn’t find this specific brand, her local pharmacist recommended Greek-market ibuprofen alternatives that contained the same active ingredient at the same dosage.

For more specialized medications, particularly newer treatments, availability can be more limited. It’s advisable to bring a sufficient supply of any specialized medications when you first move to Greece, giving you time to consult with local healthcare providers about long-term solutions.

Health Insurance and Medication Coverage

How much you’ll pay for prescriptions in Greece depends largely on your insurance status. Let’s break down the common scenarios expats encounter:

Public Insurance Coverage (EOPYY)

If you’re contributing to the Greek social security system (typically through employment), you’ll have access to medication coverage through EOPYY. This public insurance typically covers between 75-90% of prescription medication costs, with you paying the remainder out-of-pocket. Some medications for serious or chronic conditions may be fully covered.

To access these benefits, you’ll need:

• A valid AMKA (social security) number
• A prescription from a doctor registered with the EOPYY system
• Your health insurance booklet or card when visiting the pharmacy

Private Insurance Options

Many expats supplement public coverage with private health insurance. These policies vary widely in their medication coverage:

Important consideration: If you’re planning to buy property in Greece and establish long-term residency, investing in comprehensive health insurance becomes even more important. Many expats find that their healthcare needs evolve the longer they live in Greece, particularly as they age.

Overcoming Language Barriers

One of the most immediate challenges for expats seeking medications in Greece is the language barrier. While many Greek healthcare professionals in urban and tourist areas speak English, this isn’t universal.

Medical Translation Resources

Preparation is your best strategy for overcoming language barriers:

• Medical translation cards: Create cards listing your regular medications, including generic names, dosages, and frequency
• Digital translators: Apps like Google Translate can help in a pinch, though they’re not always accurate for medical terminology
• International classification: Know the ATC (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical) classification code for your medications, which is standardized internationally

Elena, a British expat living in Crete, shares: “I created a document with all my medications listed in both English and Greek, including the generic names. When my regular pharmacy was closed during a holiday, I was able to get what I needed at another pharmacy despite the pharmacist speaking limited English.”

English-Speaking Healthcare Providers

Establishing relationships with English-speaking healthcare providers simplifies the prescription process considerably:

• Expat-focused medical centers: Larger cities have clinics specifically catering to the international community
• Hospital international departments: Major private hospitals typically have international patient services
• Expat communities: Connect with established expat groups (online or in-person) for recommendations of English-speaking doctors

Pro Tip: Even if a doctor speaks English, their administrative staff might not. Consider asking a Greek-speaking friend to help schedule your first appointment, or request email communication which is easier to translate than phone conversations.

Special Considerations for Specific Medications

Certain medication categories have unique regulations in Greece that expats should be aware of before arrival.

Controlled Substances

Medications classified as narcotics or controlled substances (including many strong painkillers, anxiety medications, and ADHD treatments) are more strictly regulated in Greece than in some other countries. These medications typically require:

• A special prescription form (narcotic prescription or “συνταγή ναρκωτικών”)
• More frequent doctor visits for renewals
• Possible limitations on quantity prescribed

If you regularly take controlled medications, consult with a Greek doctor immediately upon arrival to understand your options. In some cases, alternative treatments may be recommended.

Over-the-Counter vs. Prescription Medications

The classification of medications varies between countries. Some medications that are available over-the-counter in your home country might require a prescription in Greece, and vice versa.

Common examples include:

• Antibiotics: Strictly prescription-only in Greece, despite being available over-the-counter in some countries
• Higher-strength painkillers: Even non-narcotic options often require prescriptions
• Some antihistamines: Available over-the-counter but may be different brands than you’re used to

Interestingly, pharmacists in Greece have some discretion to dispense certain medications without a prescription in urgent situations, though this is becoming less common as regulations tighten.

Practical Tips for Expats

Based on experiences of long-term expats in Greece, here are some practical strategies to ensure smooth access to your medications:

Planning Ahead

• Bring a supply: When first moving to Greece, bring a 2-3 month supply of your regular medications (with proper documentation if traveling through customs)
• Research equivalents: Before arrival, research the Greek or European names for your medications
• Medical records: Bring translated copies of relevant medical records, especially for chronic conditions
• Set calendar reminders: Greek prescriptions expire quickly, so set reminders to renew them

Building Your Healthcare Network

Establishing relationships with healthcare providers early makes future medication needs easier to address:

• Find a regular general practitioner and specialist (if needed) within your first month
• Identify a “home pharmacy” near your residence where you can build a relationship with the pharmacist
• Join expat groups and forums where members share healthcare recommendations

Real Expat Experiences

Learning from others who have navigated the Greek healthcare system can provide valuable insights for newcomers.

Case Study: Managing Chronic Conditions

Michael, a 58-year-old Canadian expat living in Kalamata, manages Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. His experience highlights both challenges and solutions:

“When I first arrived in Greece, I brought three months’ worth of my medications. During that time, I found a doctor who spoke excellent English and helped me transition to equivalent medications available in Greece. The electronic prescription system makes refills much easier than I expected—my doctor can now renew my prescriptions without me visiting in person every time.

The biggest surprise was that my diabetes medication actually costs less in Greece than in Canada, even without insurance coverage. However, my blood pressure medication is a newer formula that isn’t fully covered by EOPYY, so I pay about 40% out-of-pocket.

My advice to new expats with chronic conditions: don’t assume medication availability or pricing—research specifically for your medications before arrival, and budget accordingly.”

Case Study: Emergency Medication Needs

Lisa, an American expat in Rhodes, shares her experience with an unexpected need for antibiotics during a holiday weekend:

“I developed a severe throat infection on Easter weekend when most businesses were closed. I didn’t know about the on-duty pharmacy system and panicked slightly. A local neighbor directed me to check the pharmacy door in the main square, where I found a posted list of on-duty pharmacies.

The pharmacist spoke limited English but understood my symptoms. She called a doctor who authorized a prescription over the phone (which I learned is an emergency exception to the standard prescription process). The pharmacist even explained the dosage schedule using a combination of Google Translate and hand gestures.

Since then, I’ve bookmarked the online listing of on-duty pharmacies and saved the emergency doctor contact information. The Greek system has workarounds for almost everything if you know where to look!”

Your Personal Healthcare Roadmap in Greece

Establishing your medication management system in Greece requires a methodical approach. Here’s your action plan for the first six months as an expat:

1. Immediate arrival (First week):
   • Locate the nearest pharmacy to your residence
   • Identify 24-hour pharmacies in your area
   • Register for your AMKA (social security number) if eligible
2. Getting established (First month):
   • Select and visit a primary care doctor
   • Transfer any existing prescriptions to the Greek system
   • Create a medication list in both English and Greek
3. Building your system (2-3 months):
   • Establish relationships with specialists if needed
   • Create a calendar system for prescription renewals
   • Investigate private insurance options if public coverage is insufficient
4. Long-term planning (4-6 months):
   • Evaluate your medication costs and adjust budget as necessary
   • Consider joining the Greek public healthcare system if initially on private insurance only
   • Research mail-order options for any unavailable medications

Remember that adapting to the Greek healthcare system is a marathon, not a sprint. The initial effort you invest in understanding the prescription process will pay dividends throughout your time in Greece. As you settle into your new home—perhaps in a property you’ve purchased through platforms like Tranio.com in Greece—your healthcare routines will gradually become second nature.

The most successful expats approach healthcare in Greece with flexibility and patience, recognizing that while the system differs from their home country, it offers comprehensive care once you understand how to navigate it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my home country’s prescriptions in Greek pharmacies?

Generally, no. Greek pharmacies require prescriptions issued by doctors licensed to practice in Greece. However, in emergency situations, some pharmacists may dispense a minimal supply (1-3 days) of non-controlled medications if you can present your foreign prescription and passport. For ongoing medication needs, you’ll need to consult a Greek doctor who can issue a local prescription.

How much do prescription medications cost in Greece?

Medication costs in Greece are generally lower than in countries like the United States but may be higher than in some other European countries. With EOPYY (public insurance) coverage, you’ll typically pay 25% of the cost for most medications, with some chronic condition treatments having lower co-payments (10% or even 0% for certain serious conditions). Without insurance, expect to pay the full price, though this is still often reasonable—a month’s supply of common blood pressure or cholesterol medication typically costs €15-30 without insurance.

What should I do if my specific medication isn’t available in Greece?

If your exact medication isn’t available, a Greek doctor can often prescribe a therapeutic equivalent with the same active ingredient. For medications with no available equivalent, you have several options: (1) Ask your doctor about alternative treatments available in Greece, (2) Investigate whether the medication can be specially ordered through a pharmacy (which may take 1-2 weeks and cost more), (3) Arrange for someone to ship the medication from your home country (checking customs regulations first), or (4) Consider returning to your home country periodically to refill prescriptions if the medication is essential and has no alternatives.

Article reviewed by Dimitris Papadakis, Luxury Property Specialist | Curating Exclusive Real Estate Opportunities, on May 5, 2025