This article examines the Greek goddess Hygieia by looking at her identity, cult status in the ancient world and subsequent scholarly reception. Should she be viewed as a goddess or a personification? By studying Hygieia primarily as a concept of health within ancient medicine, as well as a personification and a goddess, it will be argued that religious and mythological figures should be viewed as deities within ancient Greek culture, rather than personifications. The article will consider Hygieia’s role in the cult of Asklepios and examine whether she is of greater importance because of her function as a goddess of healing, as well as discussing her role within emergent Christianity.