Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Health
Availability & Cost of Health Care
Although medical training is of a high standard in Greece, the public health service is
badly underfunded. Hospitals can be overcrowded, hygiene is not always what it should
be and relatives are expected to bring in food for the patient, which can be a problem for a
tourist. Conditions and treatment are much better in private hospitals, which are expens-
ive. All this means that a good health-insurance policy is essential.
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If you need an ambulance in Greece call 166.
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There is at least one doctor on every island and larger islands have hospitals.
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Pharmacies can dispense medicines that are available only on prescription in most
European countries.
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Consult a pharmacist for minor ailments.
Environmental Hazards
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Dangerous snakes include the adder and the less common viper and coral snakes. To
minimise the possibilities of being bitten, always wear boots, socks and long trousers
when walking through undergrowth where snakes may be present.
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Mosquitoes can be an annoying problem, though there is no danger of contracting mal-
aria. The electric mosquito-repellent devices are usually sufficient to keep the insects at
bay at night. Choose accommodation that has fly screen on the windows wherever pos-
sible. Some mosquitoes in northern Greece can provoke a severe reaction. The Asian ti-
ger mosquito
(Aedes albopictus)
may be encountered in mountainous areas, can be a vo-
racious daytime biter, and is known to carry several viruses, including Eastern equine en-
cephalitis, which can affect the central nervous system and cause severe complications
and death. Use protective sprays or lotion if you suspect you are being bitten during the
day.
Insurance
If you're an EU citizen, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC; formerly the E111) cov-
ers you for most medical care but not emergency repatriation or nonemergencies. It is
available from health centres, and post offices in the UK. Citizens from other countries
should find out if there is a reciprocal arrangement for free medical care between their
country and Greece. If you do need health insurance, make sure you get a policy that
covers you for the worst possible scenario, such as an accident requiring an emergency
flight home. Find out in advance if your insurance plan will make payments directly to pro-
viders or reimburse you later for overseas health expenditures.
