Rights & insurance

The paperwork is not yours to work out alone. What is covered, which procedures exist and where they start.

What is covered

In Greece, cancer treatment is covered by EOPYY for insured patients. Cover includes anticancer medicines, monitoring tests and hospital care, with different procedures for each category.

Procedures and required documents change over time. What follows gives the picture and the starting points — for what applies at the moment you need it, confirm with EOPYY or with the practice.

Medicine approvals

A number of cancer medicines are dispensed through a specific approval process, initiated by the treating doctor. Some are available only from EOPYY or hospital pharmacies.

This paperwork is not yours to work out alone. Ask who handles each step and what is needed from you.

Disability certification (KEPA)

KEPA certification opens access to allowances, tax relief and other provisions. The process takes time, so it is worth starting early rather than under pressure.

The treating doctor prepares the required medical file. Ask for it in good time.

Work and leave

You are entitled to sick leave and, depending on circumstances, to adjustments at work. You are not obliged to disclose your diagnosis to your employer — a medical certificate of unfitness for work is sufficient.

Your rights as a patient

To be fully and comprehensibly informed about your diagnosis, the options and the risks.
To receive a copy of your medical file.
To seek a second opinion, without that affecting your care.
To decline a proposed treatment, having been informed of the consequences.
To have your personal data protected.

Frequently asked questions

Is molecular testing covered?

It depends on the test and the indication, and the framework changes. Ask before testing what is covered and what is not, so there is no surprise.

Do I need a lawyer or adviser for these procedures?

Usually not. Patient associations offer free guidance and have practical experience of these procedures — they are often the most useful first point of contact.