Medical Care
(this section previously on the living.html page
and has been expanded)
Brits and Irish in Crete and anywhere in Greece are covered by reciprocal health agreements with the Greek government and any need for assistance from Greek public hospitals is provided free of charge. None the less private health cover insurance is recommended by the British Embassy in Athens. (Download full information on British Government advice in its "Notes on Living in Greece" here.)
Public Sector Health Care
Greek Doctors working in the national Greek health care system are renowned for being some of the best in the world and in my experience I would not argue with this, however there is very little in the way of post operative treatment or after care if a stay in Hospital is required, and you would need to call on another family member or relative to come in and look after you. There are full time "helpers" around the wards than can also be hired to feed and take care of patients.
If an emergency arises during your stay in hospital then obviously a nurse or doctor will be on call and available, but for the basic daily routine such as feeding you, bathing and being kept clean, change of pyjamas etc your nurse would be a family member or relative. There are local ward helpers - "freelance staff" who are available for hire by patients who need help and do not have relatives or good friends at hand.
Privacy in Cretan hospitals is not of paramount importance. When a friend had one of 3 blood tests they said they felt like they were auditioning for the part of a blood test patient, as there were about 10 people sat outside the blood testing clinic watching as the needle went in. Despite this they said that the test was the least painful they had ever had and did not leave a big bruise like the Blood Tests experienced at the hands of their local GP in the UK.
At Crete's public hospitals, we have found the level of medical skill and attention to be on a par, if not better than, treatment and care in the UK. The speed with which you are diagnosed can be astounding. Mostly it is an efficient system of having tests, x-rays, bringing in consultants on duty and other necessary back up support and not a case of sitting around in waiting rooms for hours and hours.
The National Center for Emergencies - the state ambulance service is known as EKAB. Telephone 166 from a fixed line telephone.
On the island of Crete the four prefectures have a main hospital each. In Heraklion there are two hospitals. Many senior government doctors also operate their own private practices. Be on your guard not to be drawn into the private health care route when being treated in the public sector. If however you are faced with an operation or major procedure you are 'expected', although not obliged, to show your appreciation for services rendered, and I do not mean just a basket of fruit or bottle of Scotch Whiskey.
There are public poly clinics but knowing where they are located and are they close enough is another matter. Perhaps a private clinic, doctor or hospital is more handy. Wherever you find yourself, as Crete is a large island, do be sure to know where emergency facilities are located in proximity to your residence or place of stay.
For emergencies that do not require hospitalisation the privately run clinics, such as the Cretan Medicare Centre in the Heraklion area is where you would need to go, but it will cost you. Often private facilities such as the Cretan Medicare Centres will be found in tourist resorts due to their high usage in the summer months by visitors. One example: to have 18 Sea Urchin spikes removed from a heel cost €40!! Private medical Insurance is therefore recommended and is a legal requirement in self employment.
Useful Links
Bereavement in Crete - In the highly unlikely situation you need to know what to do if a loved one or a close friend dies, then our dedicated page, "dying in Greece" is a very useful and handy to resource on the procedures involved - compiled by the BritsinCrete team.
Frequently Asked Questions
A visit to "FAQs" about Crete covers a range of useful and diverse topics.
Other Useful Reference Pages on Ex Pat Living in Crete:
Schools for Foreign Children
Being part of the EU, Greece through state organisations has sponsored Schools for Foreign Children, including the EU, European School Heraklion. A true experience of bringing the kids over in "Making the Leap with Kids".
Public Utilities
Public Utilities - Electricity and water. Explanation of billing.
Living in Winter is Different
Crete - you know the weather is good that is why you come to Southern Greece but Crete also has a winter climate and its house heating implications.
PTT - Post and Telecoms
Telephone, Internet and Postal Services - what you need to know.
Cretan Culture
Retaining language and customs yet making foreigners feel inclusive along with choices in local TV Viewing.
Updated Cost of Living Details - February 2008
More important information for calculating the cost of living on fixed income on a monthly basis.
Stores and Supermarkets Grocery Shopping
From small village stores, to large supermarket chains, like Carrefour and Lidl, Crete has it all. A Quick guide to what is available.
Citizens Advice Bureaus in Greece (K.E.P.)
Your short cut to the Ministries and who is responsible for what.
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