Travel is great for discovering new destinations, cultures and experiences but it can also throw up some unexpected health problems. A country with a long history, breath-taking nature and lively culture, Spain is a common-travel-place for many people from all around the world. In this blog, we will discuss the details of the healthcare system in Spain, so you know how to use it in case you need any medical help while travelling within Spain.
Understanding the Spanish Healthcare System
Spain has some of the best healthcare in the world, both private & public. Healthcare is largely taxpayer-funded, with the Spanish National Health System (SNS) offering free or low-cost healthcare to all Spanish residents. Medical assistance will obviously depend whether you are a citizen of the EU or Other country.
European Union (EU) Travelers
You should bring an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) from an EU/EEA country.
This entitles you to charge-free attendance at public health centres — in practice, this card guarantees that your treatment will cost no more than it does for Spanish passport-holders. An EHIC entitles you to free or reduced-cost healthcare, depending on local regulations and the nature of the treatment.
Non-EU Travellers
For non-EU country travellers, travel insurance that also covers medical expenses is a must-have.
In Spain most hospitals or medical centres will serve you with no EU citizenship, but they will make you pay unless your insurance covers those expenses. Before you sign up, make sure to check that your travel insurance policy covers medical emergencies, doctor visits, hospital stays, etc.
Steps to Take If You Need Medical Help in Spain
Contact a Doctor
For quick and convenient medical help, start with English-speaking doctors in Spain through telehealth apps like Doctorsa. These apps allow you to consult with local doctors within minutes, offering 24/7 urgent care without the need for sign-up. It’s perfect for travelers who need immediate support without leaving their accommodation.
Assess the Situation
When you should seek help from a doctor, the first step in seeking medical assistance is to determine the severity of your condition. You may be able to look after yourself if it is a minor illness or injury e.g. cold, fever, small cuts can go to local chemist to get care. But for the serious ones like fractures, chest pain, or hives, you need to immediately get in touch with a physician.
Visit a Pharmacy
Throughout Spain, pharmacies are widespread, and there is usually no difficulty in finding one, even in the smallest towns and villages. They will have a green cross on the side and are open from Monday-Saturday but expect 24-hour pharmacies in larger cities.
In Spain, pharmacists have an excellent standard of training and will help with basic over-the-counter medications for headaches, colds, or minor injuries. They can also recommend if you should consult a doctor from the information you provide them with about your symptoms.
Emergency Situations
When it comes to a medical emergency, time matters. The emergency number in Spain is 112; it can be reached for free on any phone. In addition, this call is FREE from any phone. You know, that number that you call during an emergency and they send ambulances, police or firefighters. Most operators are bilingual, speaking English and another language, which means language is less of a divide to its trio of all-Spanish competitors.
Going to a Hospital
In case you need hospitalisation, you can choose to go to a public or private hospital. Public hospitals [+] are part of Spain’s national health system and cater to EU citizens with an EHIC or travellers with the right insurance coverage. International visitors from outside the EU who do not have insurance will be charged if they require treatment.
Language Considerations
The doctors in Spain, at least in typical tourist cities or urban regions, speak English. But you may face language problems in smaller towns or rural areas.
Make sure to brush up on some basic Spanish phrases or use a translator app if you want to be able to communicate with language.
Costs and Payment
Overall, the medical costs in Spain depend on specific treatment needs, but if you are enrolled in public healthcare you will be paying a part of all the treatments. They are essentially free at the point of use (in the same way that most public health services in EU countries will be free to anyone with an EHIC). So, that’s all we have for you about what to do if you need medical help while travelling in Spain. We hope that this guide has helped you.