MEDICAL SERVICES

 

PHARMACIES

If you have medical problems of a minor nature the pharmacy will be the cheapest and most convenient first port of call. Greek pharmacists are very well trained and can sell drugs that would normally require a prescription in most European countries. If you will be bringing prescription drugs with you, it is best to bring the prescription with you as well to avoid trouble with customs and facilitate more supplies if needed. On a similar note, it is not widely publicised but codeine is an illegal substance in Greece. It is a common ingredient in many over the counter pain killers in the UK so you may wish to read the labels of any tablets you intend bringing with you. All recreational drugs are illegal in Greece and possession carries draconian penalties.

DOCTORS

There are hospitals in the major cities, and English speaking doctors in the larger towns and tourist resorts. Doctors in Crete are quite competent and most have trained overseas and will be fluent in at least one foreign language. If your hotel or apartment complex can't recommend a doctor, ask the tourist police or at a tourist office. In the event an ambulance is required the number is 116.

DENTISTS

There are plenty of very good dentists in Crete. Dental work is not only of a very high standard, it is also significantly cheaper than in North Western Europe. If you are in need of major dental work then it is worth considering having it done here in conjunction with a holiday. You can save money, have a holiday, ( in between the drilling at least ) and an x-ray of your root canal work will make an interesting departure from the usual holiday snaps.

THE EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD

If you are a European citizen then you are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card or EHIC. This should entitle you to free consultation and treatment from doctors and dentists. At hospitals you just need to show the card on admittance. To make an appointment with a regular doctor or dentist for free treatment you should ring the Social Insurance Institute ( IKA ) on its national appointments hotline 184.
Prescriptions from pharmacies in the national scheme are charged at 25% of the cost of the drugs plus a small fee. If you are charged the full amount it is possible, in theory at least, to claim a rebate from the IKA office in either Chania or Iraklion. Or if you are unable to get there, then when you return home.

DETAILS-www.dh.gov.uk/travellers