Diagnostic Imaging in Greece

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Greece?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Greece for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Greece

About Greece

Located at the very bottom of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece is a mesmerizing blend of sun-drenched islands and historical marvels. Boasting approximately 2,000 islands, an impressive 170 among them are inhabited and teeming with life. Greece's geographical charm has been nowhere short of a magnet to travelling enthusiasts, pulling in a spectacular count of over 24 million wanderlust-struck visitors each passing year.

Greece turns out to be a preferred hotspot for a particular category of globe-trotters. Travelers come from the farthest stretches of the world seeking its array of top-tier beaches to soak up the sun, the warm ocean for an invigorating dip, the array of ancient relics for their history fix, and to immerse into an engaging culture. The universal allure of Greece, seemingly, never ceases to captivate the hearts of explorers worldwide.

The upward shift in Greece's status as a medical tourism hub has been quite noticeable in recent years. Medical tourists are being increasingly drawn to the country, a relative newcomer in the industry, due to a myriad of reasons. One of the core attractions is its health care system, which holds a high rank on the global scale. However, in spite of boasting of world-class standards, the medical services in Greece are pleasantly affordable. In fact, it flaunts some of the most pocket-friendly medical care prices across Europe and even globally.

The medical services that Greece provides run a comprehensive gamut. Cosmetic surgery and fertility treatments are particularly sought-after medical services, favoured by numerous medical tourists. Orthopedics also sees a consistent flow of patients, along with cardiac care procedures. The well-established oral and dental sector in Greece is another popular draw for people wanting to combine their medical treatments with a relaxing vacation. The availability of such diverse, high quality, yet affordable healthcare options certainly puts Greece on the map as a promising medical tourism destination.

Popular Parts of Greece

The captivating city of Athens, the crown jewel of Greece, presents a dazzling blend of antiquated splendor, enchanting landscapes, and a vibrant modern core. The capital prides itself in harboring an unparalleled assortment of Greek ruins and antiques. Prime among them is the Acropolis, an iconic ancient citadel perched on a rocky outcrop. The Greek Agora, a central public space in ancient Greek city-states, adds an extra charm to Athens’ archaeological grandeur.

On the other hand, the striking island of Santorini stands as another touristic magnet in Greece. Admired far and wide, it carries the reputation of being the most breathtaking island in the country. The enormous allure of Santorini with its distinctive architecture, caldera views, and famous sunsets, keeps it perennially embedded in the bucket lists of travelers worldwide. From the captivating capital of Athens to the charming Santorini, Greece exhibits alluring facets that are truly hard to resist.

It is best known for its unique landscape and cliff-top towns. While Santorini is the most spectacular, Mykonos is the most glamorous. It is noted for its classy seafood restaurants and boutique hotels. Some of the most famous attractions in Mykonos, besides its beaches, are Paraportiani and Little Venice.

Weather and Climate in Greece

Set on the Mediterranean, Greece experiences a climate that is typically balmy and sun-soaked throughout the year with a cycle of four distinct seasons. Summers, spanning June to August, bring about warm and agreeable temperatures. This peak season draws in a large number of tourists, making it an ideal time to take a dive into the azure seas.

As September ushers in the fall season, the weather across Greece turns cooler but largely stays clear. On the flip side, winters starting from December to February reveal a different picture. Coastal cities remain warm but the country's northern regions experience significantly lower temperatures, occasionally even witnessing snowfall.

As March marks the arrival of spring, the weather begins to warm up again, though evenings can retain a cool nip in the air. Each season has its unique charm and adds to the overall allure of Greece.

Getting around in Greece

Athens International Airport holds the distinction of being the largest and busiest hub for international air travel in Greece. This is typically the point of arrival and departure for a majority of international tourists exploring Greece. The extensive network of this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, connecting many global cities like Dubai, London, Moscow, and New York to the heart of Greece.

Among affordable means of transport, the ferry services stand out, particularly for travelling among the islands. They run on a frequent basis, with services especially ramped up during the sun-soaked summer months. For land travel, buses come across as largely comfortable and hassle-free, although the network is somewhat limited.

For intra-city travel within major Greek metropolises, the extensive network of buses and trolleybuses prove to be reliable options. Particularly in Athens, the capital city, the metro and tram systems offer additional efficient and cost-effective ways to explore the local attractions. Additionally, taxis, which are conveniently available quite everywhere, turn out to be extremely pocket-friendly. Whether hopping between islands or navigating city streets, Greece offers a range of transportation options to suit the needs and budgets of different travelers.

Tourist Visas in Greece

Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which means that citizens of most countries can travel to Greece without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to visit Greece:

• All European Union citizens
• Citizens of Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and Vatican City
• Citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States

Citizens of all other countries need to obtain a visa to visit Greece.

You can apply for a Greek tourist visa at the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country. The visa application process can vary depending on the country where you are applying, but there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet, such as having a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and proof of financial means.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The official currency in Greece is the euro (€). €0.94 is equivalent to approximately US$1.
2. Money & Payments: Reliable ATMs can be found easily in all cities and towns, particularly on the mainland. Major credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa, are widely accepted. Tipping is expected in most places, usually around 5% to 10%. Make sure to tip in cash. 
3. Local Language: The most widely spoken language in Greece is Greek, which is the official language of the country. Most people in tourist areas and the younger generations can speak and understand some English, German, French, or Italian.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Greek Orthodox Church is the largest religion in Greece, representing 90% of the total population. There are also small communities of Muslim, Roman Catholic, and Jewish. 
5. Public holidays: The most celebrated holidays in Greece include Easter, Apokreas (Carnival Season), and Saint’s day of the Virgin Mary, Ohi Day, Independence Day, and Christmas Day.