Private Health Insurance - Is It Worth It?
In addition to basic insurance, the question of private health insurance in Greece arises. The answer depends on your personal needs and risk tolerance.
The Greek Healthcare System
Greece has a two-tiered healthcare system: the public system (ESY – Εθνικό Σύστημα Υγείας) and private clinics and doctor's offices. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages.
Public Hospitals
The medical care in public hospitals is excellent, no worse than in Switzerland. Greek doctors are well-trained, many have studied or worked in other European countries. What leaves something to be desired, however, is the infrastructure of the hospitals, the nursing care, and the waiting times.
Private Clinics
In private clinics, you have a little (but only a little) more comfort, but not necessarily better medical care. However, the waiting times are significantly shorter. Private clinics are well represented in larger cities such as Heraklion, Athens, and Thessaloniki.
The Practice of Most Swiss Abroad
Most Swiss abroad in Greece have no private health insurance and pay for doctor's visits and examinations out of pocket, as it is more cost-effective. A specialist doctor's visit in Greece typically costs between 50 and 150 Euros – significantly less than in Switzerland.
When is private health insurance worthwhile?
Private health insurance can be useful if:
- You regularly rely on specialists
- You have a chronic illness
- You value comfort and short waiting times
- You live in a region where public hospitals are far away
Providers in Greece
There are many good providers of private health insurance in Greece, including:
- Allianz Greece
- Interamerican
- Generali Greece
- Eurolife FFH
Obtain several quotes and carefully compare the benefits, especially regarding deductibles, annual maximum benefits, and exclusions.
Conclusion
The decision for or against private health insurance is very individual. Many Swiss abroad manage well without it and thus save considerable premium costs. However, those who value security and comfort will find good and comparatively inexpensive private insurance options in Greece.