Crete Hospital Abruptly Suspends Elective Surgeries Amid Staffing Crisis

Wednesday, 6 May 2026/Source: Flashnews/1 min read

The public hospital in Agios Nikolaos, in the Lasithi region of eastern Crete, has abruptly suspended all scheduled elective surgeries at its Surgical Clinic. The suspension was announced without prior notice and highlights ongoing staffing and resource shortages affecting the facility. Agios Nikolaos Hospital serves as the main public healthcare provider for the eastern part of the island. Tourists visiting the Lasithi area, including popular destinations such as Elounda, Spinalonga, and the Lasithi Plateau, should be aware that non-emergency surgical care at this hospital is currently unavailable. For serious medical needs, visitors may need to travel to Heraklion University Hospital, approximately 70 kilometres west. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended when visiting more remote parts of Crete.