Tag Archive for: Healthcare

Free Healthcare in Spain: How does it work?

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Spain is often hailed as a leader in healthcare. Many people believe that all of its citizens have access to free medical care. But is this actually true? Is there free healthcare in Spain? Whether it’s from your family doctor or a nearby hospital, let’s learn more about Spanish healthcare. Over 91% of the Spanish population uses the public healthcare system which is known as the National Health System (SNS). This means that almost every individual receives quality medical care.

But how exactly does free healthcare in Spain work? Can you just visit any hospital or clinic and expect to be treated for free? In this blog post, we explore whether Spain has a system of free healthcare or if there are charges involved. Read on to find out your rights as a tourist in terms of medical care when visiting this beautiful country.

Analyze your situation

Depending on your legal situation, there are certain ways to access free healthcare services in Spain. Below we discuss some of the most common cases.

Healthcare in Spain

Healthcare if you live and work in Spain

If you plan to stay in Spain for over three months, you must register as a resident or apply for the applicable visa. This will then allow you to make social security payments, which are mandatory in Spain. These payments contribute towards private health insurance and the national health system and provide access to private medical care.

If a Spanish company or organization employs you, your employer must deduct these payments from your salary. Alternatively, you can pay for private insurance covering private medical care and access to private hospitals. As a working or self-employed individual in Spain, you are granted the same state healthcare benefits as Spanish citizens. Plus, your dependents also qualify for these comprehensive health services.

Head down to your nearest clinic and register with your social security number obtained from the National Social Security Institute (TGSS) in Spain. Furthermore, you are eligible for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that allows access to medical care at private or public hospitals within any EU nation.

If you are not working and not entitled to an S1 form

After five years of living in Spain, you can apply for permanent residence and gain access to the same state healthcare system as any native citizen. Once approved for permanent residency status, head over to your local INSS office and register for a health insurance plan.

To be able to access healthcare while abroad, you must present a “legislation letter” (or “documento de no exportación” in Spanish). You can obtain this document by contacting the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services. With this evidence provided, you will then have the ability to receive necessary medical care overseas. Upon acquiring the document from the INSS, you must head to your local health center. However, permanent residence registration is impossible if the UK pays for healthcare via an S1 form.

If you are not a permanent resident and you are not working

After residing in Spain for over a year, you can join the public health insurance program called “Convenio Especial”. At an affordable monthly cost, this allows access to all of the Spanish healthcare services. However, being eligible and gaining acceptance into the plan requires proof that one has been on the ‘padrón’ (at your local town hall) consistently for at least twelve months before applying.

If you have been living in Spain for less than one year and cannot access healthcare coverage, purchasing private health insurance is an option. On the other hand, if the UK offers to cover your healthcare expenses through an S1 form, then you are unfortunately not eligible for a Convenio Especial. However, should you start receiving a UK State Pension, applying for an S1 with them may be possible! So visit your local health authority’s website now and learn how to register today.

If you’re dependent on someone living or working in Spain

Suppose one is classified as a dependent on someone eligible for state healthcare coverage in Spain (due to employment status, permanent residency status or Spanish benefit receipt). In that case, you must fill in an application with your local INSS office. A family doctor and private healthcare coverage may be available for a fee.

For private medical insurance, private insurance companies offer comprehensive private healthcare coverage at an affordable monthly rate. Furthermore, private sector hospitals may provide specialist doctors and emergency services in addition to hospital treatment. Additionally, private medical services can cover prescription medication and other necessary costs.

Accessing emergency treatment as a tourist in Spain

From tourists to EU/EEA residents, Spain’s public hospitals are available for emergency medical treatments that are considered urgent or severe. Suppose you’re visiting the country on holiday and have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), also known as Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea in Spain. In that case, access to free healthcare is granted at any public medical facility.

Before you plan your trip to Spain if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance for any possible healthcare matters that may occur. Keep in mind that the hospital will decide whether your situation qualifies for free treatment with an EHIC scheme. Being prepared in advance gives you peace of mind should anything occur while traveling abroad. For non-life-threatening situations, make a doctor’s appointment through an insurance provider or use your EHIC.

Is healthcare free in Spain?

Who is entitled to free healthcare in Spain?

All Spanish residents, including salaried and self-employed people, children, pregnant individuals, and students aged 26 or younger, can receive complimentary healthcare courtesy of the government. Other citizens may also get free medical treatment if they fit these criteria:

  • Holders of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
  • EU/EEA nationals with private health insurance.
  • Foreign nationals who are registered as residents in Spain, paying taxes and making Social Security contributions or private medical insurance payments.
  • Students aged 26 or younger, even if they are not Spanish citizens.

If your UK employer sent you to Spain temporarily, you can access healthcare in Spain using an EHIC, GHIC or S1 form. With an EHIC or GHIC, you can access the same state healthcare as Spanish citizens. If your employer provides an S1 form, you can access free healthcare in Spain.

Is it free to go to a hospital in Spain?

If you are a Spanish citizen or an EU/EEA visitor, then the treatment offered at public hospitals in Spain is free. You only need to present your national health card (Spanish citizens) or EHIC (EU/EEA visitors). However, remember that certain things such as optional vaccines and particular medications may come with additional costs. Those enrolled in the Convenio Especial will be responsible for paying the total cost when obtaining prescription medication.

With the state system, a few basic dental treatments are available; however, most people prefer to use private dentists. Also, different insurance companies have customized policies when it comes to dental coverage. Also, be aware that any test you may take, must be prescribed by your family doctor in order to get access to a specialist.

How can I get public healthcare in Spain?

Hospitals in Spain are among the best in the world. The Spanish Government regulates the public healthcare system. Private insurance companies, as well as private hospitals, are available in order to provide additional services. You must register for a social security number using your passport and residency card to receive public health coverage. Then, present proof of registration with your local town hall (padrón).

Once you have obtained the necessary documents, visit your nearest clinic to request an assigned primary care doctor who will give you a health card to access private healthcare services provided by public hospitals and private clinics.

A word from SublimeSpain

While it’s easy to see that Spain does offer free healthcare for its citizens and legal residents, it’s important to recognize that the system is not without fault. Issues like overcrowding, long wait times, and a lack of specialized services are just some of the complaints lodged by those with experience in the Spanish healthcare system.

You may choose to supplement the state system with private health insurance or private medical insurance in order to ensure you get access to the best quality care, when and where you need it. It’s important that you understand your options before making a decision about your healthcare. Ultimately, free healthcare in Spain is essential for ensuring a healthy society and a flourishing economy in the future.

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal advice. We highly recommend seeking guidance from a legal expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.

Children’s Healthcare in Spain

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The provision of children’s healthcare in Spain is carried out through a comprehensive system of healthcare providers, which comprises both public and private institutions. These healthcare providers are widely referred to as “Centros de Salud” and are dedicated to promoting the well-being of children.

Spain ensures that children have access to quality healthcare services, irrespective of their economic status or social background. These facilities are staffed by highly trained medical professionals who specialize in pediatric care and are equipped with the latest medical technologies to provide the best possible care for children.

In this article, we will share useful information about children’s healthcare in Spain and we will list the 10 best pediatric hospitals in that country. Read on!

Spain is committed to children’s health

Children’s healthcare in Spain is a fundamental right that is protected by law. This means that children in Spain have access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, vaccinations, routine check-ups, and treatment for acute and chronic illnesses. Pediatricians and family doctors play a critical role in providing primary care to children, and they are supported by a team of nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals.

In addition to the public healthcare system, there are also private health insurance providers that offer services to children and families. Private insurance is typically more expensive than public healthcare, but it may offer faster access to specialists and more personalized care.

children's healthcare in Spain

Does Spain have free healthcare?

Yes. All residents in Spain are required to register for healthcare. This means that if you are living in Spain, you need to obtain a health card or “tarjeta sanitaria” to access medical services.

The process of obtaining a health card varies depending on whether you are an EU citizen or not. EU citizens can obtain a health card by presenting their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or by registering for healthcare in Spain. Non-EU citizens need to provide proof of residency and employment to register for healthcare.

Cost of Healthcare in Spain

Once registered for healthcare, basic state services are free, but there are some services that require a co-payment, such as prescriptions. The co-payment for prescriptions varies depending on the medication and the patient’s income. Pensioners, children, and individuals with chronic conditions are exempt from paying co-payments. However, non-residents or tourists are required to pay the full price for medical services, including emergency care in health centers.

Public vs. private children’s Healthcare in Spain

As said before, children’s healthcare in Spain is delivered through a network of public and private healthcare providers. The primary point of contact for children’s healthcare is usually the primary care pediatrician, who is responsible for providing routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care services.

The public healthcare system in Spain provides free healthcare services to children under the age of 18, including specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and hospitalization. However, if a child needs more specialized medical care, they may be referred to a pediatric specialist or hospital.

In addition to the public healthcare system, there are also private health insurance providers that offer healthcare services to children. Private healthcare providers usually charge fees for their services, and many families choose to purchase private health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare.

Choosing the Right Healthcare Option for Your Child

When it comes to your child’s health, choosing the right healthcare option can be challenging. While Spain’s public healthcare system provides universal coverage, it can come with long wait times for specialist care. Private health insurance, on the other hand, offers faster access to specialist care, but it comes at a cost.

Ultimately, the decision of which healthcare option to choose for your child depends on your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as wait times, cost, and language accessibility when making this decision.

Top 10 best pediatric hospitals in Spain

Parents always want to ensure the best possible medical care for their children. The availability of top-notch pediatric hospitals is crucial in ensuring the best possible care for children. In this sense, Spain is home to some of the best pediatric hospitals in Europe.

We have compiled a top 10 ranking of the best children’s hospitals in Spain based on two independent surveys. This ranking was prepared by the Monitor de Reputación Sanitaria through a survey conducted by the independent firm KPMG. It involved 2,700 doctors, nurses, patients, journalists and healthcare professionals, and also evaluated up to 900 objective quality indicators.

It should be borne in mind that there are some 300 hospitals in Spain, but only those with more than 3 specialties are included and the ranking is made up of the 70 best. If you’re a parent residing in Spain, you might find the following list very useful.

  1. Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid)
  2. Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús (Madrid)
  3. Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (Madrid)
  4. Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona)
  5. Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe (Valencia)
  6. Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron (Barcelona)
  7. Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón (Madrid)
  8. Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío (Sevilla)
  9. Clínica Universitari de Navarra (Navarra)
  10. Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (Madrid)

In addition, the Coordenadas Institute presented in January 2015 the first edition of the Hospital Excellence Index (IEH 2015) of the best hospitals in Spain by specialties and in the area of Pediatrics the results are very similar:

1- Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid)

2-Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús (Madrid)

3-Hospital Sant Joan’de Déu (Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona)

Pediatric Specialties in Spain

Spain has 23 branches of pediatric specialties, including neonatology, endocrinology, cardiology, neurology, and hematology, among others. Each of these branches focuses on a specific area of pediatric medicine, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to care.

Private healthcare insurance often covers a wide range of health specialties, allowing you to access the care your child needs. Additionally, private clinics and hospitals often provide medical services in multiple languages, making it easier for non-Spanish speakers to communicate with doctors and specialists.

Pediatric Cardiac Surgery and Pediatric Cardiology in Spain

Pediatric cardiac surgery is one of the most demanded specialties. There are many hospitals that are well-known for providing outstanding service in this area.

One example is the Pediatric Heart Surgery Department at the Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron (Barcelona). It is a pioneering and well-established unit in Spain. The team has over 40 years of experience in pediatric cardiology and has performed more than 5,000 surgeries involving extracorporeal circulation. The expert surgeons and medical professionals at the Vall d’Hebron Hospital are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to their patients.

It is a national reference center for the treatment of congenital heart disease. As such, it offers a wide range of surgical options for all kinds of diseases. The team of highly skilled surgeons and doctors is trained in the latest techniques and technologies and provides the most advanced and effective treatments for their patients.

children's healthcare in Spain

Why Routine Checkups for Children in Spain are Essential for their Health and Development?

As a parent, ensuring your child’s health and well-being is your top priority. In Spain, pediatricians are responsible for taking care of your child’s health and development until the age of 15.

Regular checkups, screenings, and vaccinations are some of the important measures that Spanish pediatricians take to ensure your child stays healthy and reaches their developmental milestones.

Post-birth exams and Preventative Screenings

Pediatricians in Spain carry out post-birth exams to assess your baby’s overall health and well-being. This includes checking for any birth injuries or health issues that may have developed within the first 24 hours of life.

Additionally, pediatricians perform preventative screenings to detect any potential health issues early on. These screenings include monitoring your child’s height and weight, hearing and vision, as well as cognitive, mental, and psychological development.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are an essential aspect of preventative healthcare for children. Spanish pediatricians ensure that your child receives all the necessary vaccines at the recommended times. This helps to protect your child from infectious diseases and serious health conditions.

Monitoring Development

Pediatricians monitor your child’s development to ensure they are reaching their developmental milestones. Regular checkups allow pediatricians to detect any potential issues early on and provide appropriate interventions if necessary.

Check up Schedule

Spanish pediatricians usually follow a checkup schedule that is tailored to your child’s age. The schedule ensures that your child receives the necessary checkups and screenings at the appropriate times throughout their development. It is as follows:

  • Once a month for the first six months
  • Every three months from the age of 6-12 months
  • Every four months from the age of 1-2 years
  • Twice a year from ages 2-6 years
  • At least once a year from the ages 6-15 years

¿What is Preventive Healthcare in the Spanish healthcare system?

Preventive healthcare is a crucial aspect of children’s healthcare in Spain. The government provides a comprehensive vaccination program that covers all children under the age of 18. This program includes vaccinations for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and polio, among others.

In addition to vaccinations, the public healthcare system in Spain provides regular check-ups for children to ensure that they are growing and developing normally. These check-ups also include screenings for vision and hearing problems, as well as dental care exams.

A word from SublimeSpain

Overall, children’s healthcare in Spain is generally of high quality, and the country has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure. However, there are some regional variations in the quality of healthcare services, and some families may face long waiting times for non-emergency medical care and other treatments in the case of free healthcare assistance.

Choosing a hospital for your children in Spain is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. The decision should be based on factors such as the hospital’s reputation, the availability of specialized pediatric services, the quality of medical care, the hospital’s location, the accessibility of emergency care and the type of health insurance.

It is essential to do proper research, ask for recommendations, and visit the hospital before making a final decision. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your children receive the best possible medical care in a safe and comfortable environment. Remember, choosing the right hospital can make all the difference in your child’s health and well-being.

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal or medical advice. We highly recommended seeking guidance from a legal or medical expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.

Healthcare in Spain: The Ultimate Guide for Expats

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If you’re an expat planning to move to Spain, one of the most important things you need to look at is Spain’s healthcare system. What’s the system like? How much will it cost? What do you need to do to get set up? This article will provide a comprehensive guide to healthcare in Spain for expats.

Types of healthcare systems in Spain

Spain has a diverse healthcare system that includes both public and private options.

Healthcare in Spain

Public healthcare system

The Spanish public healthcare system is one of the best in the world. The national health system is praised for its high quality, efficiency, and accessibility. It provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens, regardless of income. The system is funded mainly by taxes, and the Ministry of Health oversees it. Healthcare facilities are typically clean and well-equipped and wait times are usually short.

Spanish doctors are highly trained, and they often speak multiple languages. In addition, Spain has several world-class hospitals, making it a popular destination for medical tourism. The public healthcare system in Spain is awe-inspiring, and it is an essential part of the country’s quality of life.

Some healthcare costs are not covered under public medical insurance in Spain. For example, specific medicine, dental care, and cosmetic surgery are not included. In addition, some services may have a co-pay, but these are typically small expenses.

Private healthcare system

Private healthcare is also available in Spain; you can get treatment from a private doctor or hospital. Although private healthcare is not free, certain private hospitals or care facilities in Spain offer higher quality and more attention than public ones. They have more modern and better equipped than public hospitals, and they typically have shorter wait times.

Around 15% of the population in Spain has private healthcare, which is lower than the average in developed countries. This is because the public healthcare system is so good that many people don’t feel the need to pay for private healthcare.

Cost of Healthcare in Spain

The cost of healthcare in Spain is relatively low compared to other developed countries. The government subsidizes a large portion of the cost of healthcare, and this keeps the overall cost down. In addition, many private healthcare providers offer discounts to expats.

Public health insurance cost

You will need to pay social security contributions to access public health insurance. These are deducted from your salary if you are employed, or you can pay them yourself if you are self-employed. The amount you will need to pay depends on your income, but it is typically around 60-100 euros per month.

The autonomous regions set the number of social security contributions to healthcare. The social security you need to pay depends on the employed and self-employed income. If you don’t have a job, you don’t pay health insurance.

Private health insurance cost

Private health insurance is not mandatory in Spain, but you can choose it if you want extra private care. The cost of private health insurance depends on the provider and the type of plan you choose. Plans can range from around 30 euros per month for a basic policy to 200 euros or more per month for a comprehensive policy.

It is important to note that if you have private health insurance, you will still need to pay the social security contributions mentioned for public health insurance in Spain. This is because private health insurance only covers certain services, and the public health system covers the rest.

Options for private insurance companies include:

Healthcare in Spain for Expats

Many expats choose to move to Spain for its warm weather and Mediterranean lifestyle. But what about healthcare? Can foreigners get the same level of care as Spanish citizens? In short, yes. The Spanish healthcare system is known for being both high-quality and affordable, and expats are entitled to the same level of care as Spanish nationals.

You will need to register with the local healthcare system / social security system (Seguridad social) to access the Spanish healthcare system. This can be done at your local town hall, online or at a health centre. Once you have registered, you will be given a European health insurance card (Tarjeta sanitaria Europea) which you can use to access all public healthcare services.

Qualification for public healthcare services

Expats can have access to public healthcare in Spain if they meet any of the following criteria:

  • Employed in Spain (expat or not)
  • Receive Spanish retirement
  • Europeans with a European health card
  • Self-employed in Spain (autonomo)
  • Residence permits are registered with the town hall
  • A student enrolled in a Spanish university
  • Students under 26 and from an EU
  • Certain expats with universal healthcare
  • Pregnant women and mothers with children
  • Divorcees who used to hold healthcare from partners
  • Europeans with a European health card

You will not be eligible for free medical treatment under the Spanish public health system if you are not a pensioner, worker, or legally residing in Spain.

Private insurance for residency

Specific visa requirements such as the (non-lucrative visa) or the (retirement visa) require that you have private medical insurance to obtain your Spanish residency permit.

Healthcare in Spain

Health Centres and health clinics in Spain

Primary healthcare in Spain is provided by General practitioners and healthcare centres known as centro de salud (CS) and centro de atención primaria (CP). The health centres are situated all across the region with a number of multi-specialities teams, including GP, paediatricians, nurse gynaecologist physiotherapist.

A list of the nearest health centres to your location can be found on the website of your autonomous region. For example, in Andalusia, you can find a list of all healthcare centres here and via the following links:

Dental care in Spain

Typically dental care is also accessible in Spain. However, it takes a couple of months to get an appointment, and therefore Spanish residents typically choose private dental care, which is quicker.

For those on a budget, there are still many public dental clinics. Just make sure to make an appointment in advance.

A word from SublimeSpain

The Spanish Healthcare system is one of the best globally, and health insurance in Spain is typically not needed since healthcare services are public and free for residents. However, there are some cases where you will need to have private insurance to obtain your residency permit.

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal or financial advice. We highly recommend seeking guidance from a legal or financial expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.