Health Insurance in Spain, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Madrid
Total area: 505,992 km2
Population: 45,200,737 (2007)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +34 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Spain
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Spain has a universal public healthcare system that is decentralized and managed by regional governments called Autonomous Communities.

·      It provides free or low-cost coverage to all Spaniards and registered residents. Funding comes from general taxation.

·      Primary care is the main point of entry and is delivered through local clinics called Centers for Primary Care.

·      Specialized care is provided through public hospitals that can be accessed for non-emergency situations through referrals.

·      Both outpatient and inpatient services are covered including doctor visits, medicines, emergency care, surgeries, etc.

·      There is also a private healthcare sector that operates for-profit hospitals and clinics for those willing to pay out of pocket or with supplemental private insurance.

·      The system aims for equitable access across the country even in remote regions through telemedicine initiatives.

·      Important health issues include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, injuries from traffic accidents and an aging population.

·      Overall, Spain's national healthcare is highly regarded and provides high quality care access to citizens and expats with proper coverage.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Register with the public healthcare system, even if temporarily, by obtaining a health card as a resident.

·      Those from EU/EEA countries can use their European Health Insurance Cards for coverage.

·      Purchase private supplemental insurance if desired for faster access to specialists/facilities.

·      Select a primary care doctor/clinic near your residence for non-emergency medical needs.

·      Emergency rooms are for serious situations only due to large volumes - go during hours.

·      Bring needed medication supplies and prescriptions from your home country.

·      Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, especially if visiting remote or rural areas.

·      Learn some basic medical Spanish words/phrases to better communicate with providers.

·      Monitor any impacts to physical/mental health from lifestyle/cultural adjustments.

·      Follow road safety rules carefully - traffic accidents are a leading cause of injuries.

·      Register with your embassy to facilitate any potential medical evacuation assistance.

·      Natural disasters like floods/earthquakes can occur - prepare an emergency plan.