Healthcare System in Spain: everything you need to know

How does the healthcare system work?

Spain's healthcare system operates with both a public and private systems. They are the two ways for people to access healthcare services.

The public system is financed by the government through taxes, while the private system requires direct payment from each affiliate.

Most Spanish citizens use the public system because it is universal and free. It covers emergencies, medicines and consultations with a doctor. The public system is divided into Primary Care and Specialized Care.

Primary Care includes emergency care, consultations, examinations and basic evaluations. Specialized Care is outpatient or inpatient services at specialty centers and hospitals.

Before you can receive care in the public system, you must be enrolled in Social Security. This process is free of charge and allows you to apply for a Health Card at any health center, which guarantees you health care.

The Social Security number also guarantees care to any unemployed, retired or on leave citizen.

On the other hand, private health plans, which require a monthly payment, offer slightly more robust coverage. They may include coverage for ophthalmology and other services not covered by the public system.

How does the health system for foreigners work?

For all foreigners entering Spain, it is mandatory to have some sort of health insurance in order to be admitted in the country. If you do not have one, the public system can be used only in case of accidents, serious illnesses or by women in labor.

If the foreigner is a citizen of country that is member of the European Union (EU), he/she can receive care in the public system by presenting his/her European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Similarly, for students entering Spain from other EU countries, they will have access to healthcare if they carry their EHIC. However, if they come from other parts of the world, they will need to have private health insurance in order to apply for the student visa. 

At InternationalHealth.com you can compare, quote and hire the best health insurance for your trip to Spain, wether you are going for a short vacation or staying for a long period of time.

What do I do if I have an emergency in Spain?

The number 112 is the only number for assistance in case of any emergency that requires firefighters, police or ambulance service in Spain. This is the same number you can call for emergencies in other European countries. 

Any person, regardless of whether or not they have medical insurance, has the right to receive medical attention in case of an emergency.

If you do not have a health insurance, you will be expected to pay full price for the service that you require. 

How do pharmacies work in Spain?

Unlike other countries, in Spain, you can buy prescription and over-the-counter medicines only from pharmacies, either in person or through the store's website.  

With more than 22,000 pharmacies nationwide, Spain has the highest density of pharmacies in Europe. Therefore, you will find one just by walking through your neighborhood.

Spain allows foreigners to travel into the country with up to a three-month supply of their personal medication. They must also carry with them the corresponding medical prescription from the foreign doctor. If you require a longer treatment and are staying for an extended period, you must obtain a prescription from a Spanish doctor.

Entry requirements for Spain

Any person entering the country must show proof that they are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, or take test 72 hours prior to traveling. You can also show a certificate of recovery issued at least 11 days prior to travel.