Greece's EOPYY Offers Up to 150 Euros for Balneotherapy

Greek citizens suffering from specific rheumatic, musculoskeletal, and dermatological conditions may be eligible for financial assistance from the National Health Insurance Organization (EOPYY) for balneotherapy. The program, part of the annual health benefits, offers reimbursement of up to 150 euros, covering a maximum of 15 therapeutic sessions at recognized spa locations.

The initiative runs from June 1 to October 31, 2026. To qualify, individuals must have conditions for which balneotherapy has proven therapeutic benefits. Eligible conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, polymyositis-dermatomyositis, rheumatic polymyalgia, mixed connective tissue disease, post-traumatic stiffness, and post-traumatic arthritis. Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis, chronic eczema, and chronic diffuse neurodermatitis are also included.

Applicants need to provide a medical certificate from a relevant specialist (rheumatologist, orthopedist, dermatologist, or physiatrist) detailing the condition and the necessity of balneotherapy. A cardiologist's note confirming no contraindications for the treatment is also required. Additionally, proof of spa session tickets and a certificate from the spa detailing the dates and number of sessions attended are necessary. If accommodation is required, proof of stay in a hotel or rented room is needed; otherwise, a declaration for travel expenses is sufficient.

For individuals with quadriplegia or paraplegia, EOPYY also provides reimbursement for the accompanying person's travel expenses, as per the Unified Health Benefits Regulation. This benefit is detailed in Article 43 of the Unified Health Benefits Regulation (EKPY), as amended by ministerial decision EALE/G.P. 4091/2025.