Medicine & Veterinary Spain

In Spain, there are several types of health insurance available for both residents and foreigners. These types of insurance can be divided into two main categories: public and private.

 

Public Health Insurance

 

Public health insurance is provided through the National Health System (SNS). It is available to all residents of Spain and is funded by taxes. Key features include:

 

- Comprehensive coverage: includes doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency care, and most prescription drugs. However, certain specialized procedures and services may not be fully covered.

- Accessibility: treatment is provided in public hospitals and clinics.

- Limitations: long wait times for specialist appointments, limited choice of doctors, requiring referrals from general practitioners to see specialists, and possible additional costs for medications and services.

 

Private Medical Insurance

 

Private medical insurance is popular among expats and those who want to reduce waiting times and gain access to a wider range of services. The main benefits include:

 

- Quick access to specialists: no need for a referral from a general practitioner to visit specialists, which reduces waiting times.

- Choice of doctors and clinics: the ability to choose a doctor and medical facility at your discretion.

- Additional services: coverage for dental, optical services, and other medical procedures not covered by state insurance.

- Language support: many private clinics and insurers provide services in English and other languages, which is convenient for foreigners.

 

Cost of Private Medical Insurance

 

The cost of private medical insurance varies depending on age, health condition, level of coverage, and region of residence. On average, private health insurance costs between 50 and 200 euros per month. Some plans may include co-payment, which allows lowering monthly premiums.

 

Some of the most popular insurers in Spain include:

Sanitas, Adeslas, Asisa, DKV.

 

Visa and Residency Requirements

 

To obtain long-term visas and residency permits (e.g., non-lucrative visa, digital nomad visa, golden visa) foreigners are required to provide proof of private health insurance that is comprehensive without waiting periods and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

 

Thus, the choice between public and private medical insurance depends on your personal needs, preferences, and financial capabilities.

Public Medical Institutions

 

Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, offering a wide range of services through the National Health System (SNS). Public hospitals and clinics are funded by taxes and provide free or affordable medical care for all residents and those enrolled in the social security system.

 

- Hospitals: Spain has approximately 387 public hospitals. They offer comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgical operations, and specialized treatment.

- Health centers: The primary facilities providing primary healthcare, such as consultations with general practitioners, pediatric care, and nursing services. Every locality has at least one such center.

- Clinics: Typically specialized facilities providing services in a specific area of medicine, such as dentistry, ophthalmology, or dermatology.

 

Here are some of the largest and most well-known public hospitals in Spain:

 

Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid): one of the most prestigious hospitals in Spain, known for its innovative approaches and high-quality medical services. It specializes in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology.

 

Hospital Clínic de Barcelona (Barcelona): one of the leading hospitals in Europe, offering a full range of medical services. The hospital has a strong research base and collaborates with numerous international medical institutions.

 

Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón (Madrid): a large multidisciplinary hospital, known for its achievements in the field of transplantology, as well as in the treatment of cardiovascular and oncological diseases.

 

Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (Madrid): a major medical center that is one of the country's main reference centers, especially in the areas of organ transplantation and treatment of complex diseases.

 

Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron (Barcelona): one of the largest medical complexes in Spain, known for its advanced medical research and highly qualified specialists.

 

Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe (Valencia): the hospital provides a wide range of medical services and is considered one of the best medical facilities in the country, especially in the field of neonatology and transplantation.

 

Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (Madrid): the hospital is known for its advanced treatment methods and a high level of medical research in various areas of medicine.

 

 

Private Medical Institutions

 

Private hospitals and clinics provide quicker access to medical care and offer a wider choice of specialists and services, often with better conditions and minimal waiting times.

 

- Private hospitals: About 411 private hospitals operate throughout Spain, many of which offer high-quality medical services and have English-speaking staff, which is convenient for foreign patients. For example, hospitals such as Quirónsalud and HM Hospitales are known for their high level of service.

- Private clinics: Often specialize in specific types of medical care and offer outpatient services, diagnostic tests, and minor surgical procedures.

 

Here are some of the largest and most well-known private hospitals in Spain:

 

Hospital Quirónsalud Madrid: one of the largest private medical centers in Spain, offering a wide range of services from general medicine to highly specialized procedures; has an excellent reputation in oncology, cardiology, and neurology.

 

Hospital Universitario Dexeus (Barcelona): known for its innovative treatment methods and highly qualified specialists; offers services in obstetrics, gynecology, orthopedics, and sports medicine.

 

Clínica Universidad de Navarra (Pamplona and Madrid): A university clinic with branches in Pamplona and Madrid, providing high-quality medical services and actively engaged in medical research; specializes in oncology, transplantology, and cardiology.

 

Hospital Ruber Internacional (Madrid): the hospital offers a wide range of services and is known for its high standards of care and use of advanced medical technologies; specializes in neurosurgery, orthopedics, and cardiology.

 

Hospital Sanitas La Moraleja (Madrid): part of the Sanitas network, the hospital offers high-quality medical services, including diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation; focuses on pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, as well as general surgery.

 

Vithas Xanit Internacional (Benalmádena): a private hospital in Andalusia, known for its patient care and high standards of medical service; offers a wide range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology.

 

HM Sanchinarro (Madrid): the hospital is part of the HM Hospitales network and offers comprehensive medical services; it specializes in oncology, cardiology, and neurosurgery, as well as provides intensive care and rehabilitation services.

 

 

Advantages and Disadvantages

 

Public Institutions:

- Advantages: Free or affordable healthcare, a wide network of facilities covering the full spectrum of medical services.

- Disadvantages: Long waiting times for appointments, limited choice of doctors, necessity for a referral from a general practitioner to see specialists.

 

Private Institutions:

- Advantages: Quick access to specialists, the option to choose your doctor, more comfortable treatment conditions.

- Disadvantages: High cost of services, the need for private health insurance to cover expenses.

 

Thus, Spain provides quality medical services through both public and private institutions. The choice between them depends on your personal preferences, financial capabilities, and the need for quick access to specific types of medical care. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the available insurance and medical service options to choose the most suitable option for you.

Registering with a Family Doctor

 

1. Find a local health center:

- In Spain, primary healthcare is provided through local health centers. To find the nearest center, you can use online maps or contact your local municipality.

 

2. Gather the necessary documents:

- You will need your passport or ID, NIE number, and proof of residence. In some cases, additional documents may be required, such as a registration certificate in the social security system (SIP).

 

3. Visit the health center:

- Go to the chosen health center with your documents and register with the administrator. You will receive a SIP medical card, which is required for each doctor's visit and to obtain medicine prescriptions.

 

Appointment Scheduling with a Family Doctor

 

In person: You can visit the health center and schedule an appointment with the receptionist.

 

By phone: Many health centers offer the option to schedule appointments by phone. Phone numbers can be found on local health authorities' websites.

 

Online: In some regions of Spain, online appointment scheduling is available through health portals or mobile apps. For example, the Cita Previa portal allows you to book an appointment online, selecting a convenient time and date.

 

Specialist Appointment Scheduling

 

Referral from a family doctor:

- In the public healthcare system, a referral from a family doctor is required to visit a specialist. After consultation, the family doctor will provide you with a referral to a specialist.

 

Private health insurance:

- If you have private health insurance, you can schedule an appointment with a specialist directly, without needing a referral. However, ensure that the selected specialist is included in your insurance company's list of approved doctors.

 

Online Scheduling

 

- Use of online platforms:

- Some regions offer online platforms for scheduling a doctor's appointment, such as the Cita Previa portal. You will need to register on the portal and provide your details to make an appointment.

 

- Mobile applications:

- Some regions and insurance companies offer mobile apps for convenient management of medical appointments and online consultations.

 

Registration and appointment scheduling with a doctor in Spain might seem complicated at first glance, but by following these steps, you can easily access medical services. If you face difficulties, you can always seek help from local health authorities or your insurance company.

In Spain, the emergency medical services (EMS) system provides fast and high-quality access to medical services in case of emergencies.

 

Emergency Numbers and Services

 

1. Main emergency number - 112:

- This is a universal number for calling ambulance, police, and fire services. It operates 24/7 and is free from any phone, including mobile and landline. Operators speak several languages, including English and Spanish.

 

2. Emergency medical number - 061:

- A special number for calling the emergency medical service. Calls to this number are also free of charge and provide immediate medical assistance.

 

What to do in a medical emergency

 

1. Call an ambulance:

- In case of a serious illness or injury, call 112 or 061. Operators will help you get the necessary assistance and dispatch an ambulance to your location.

 

2. Visit a hospital:

- If you can reach a hospital on your own, go to the nearest emergency department. All hospitals in Spain are required to admit patients in emergency situations, regardless of their insurance coverage.

 

Ensuring multi-channel assistance

 

- Multilingual support:

- Emergency service operators can speak multiple languages, which helps tourists and foreign residents communicate effectively in case of an emergency.

 

- High-quality medical care:

- Spanish hospitals are equipped with modern medical facilities and provide high-quality treatment. In major cities and popular tourist areas, you will find hospitals with English-speaking staff.

 

Additional contacts

 

- Red Cross (Cruz Roja): 900 221 122

- Maritime Rescue Service: 900 202 202

- Police: National Police - 091, Local Police - 092, Civil Guard - 062.

 

Tips for tourists and expats

 

1. Carry your insurance card:

- Always carry your health card (tarjeta sanitaria) or private health insurance confirmation to avoid additional costs.

 

2. Familiarize yourself with routes to the nearest hospitals:

- Get to know the nearest hospitals and the routes to them to be prepared for any situation.

 

Emergency assistance is provided free of charge at both public and private hospitals, although private hospitals may issue a bill for services after providing first aid.

In Spain, the process of undergoing medical tests and examinations may vary depending on whether you use public or private medical services.

State Healthcare System

1. Visiting a Family Doctor:

- When visiting your family doctor at the local healthcare center, you must be registered in the healthcare system and have a medical record.

- The family doctor will assess your condition and, if necessary, refer you for tests or to a specialist.

 

2. Referral for Tests and Examinations:

- The family doctor will issue a referral, with which you can undergo the necessary tests and examinations in a state clinic or laboratory.

- Most tests (blood, urine, etc.) can be done at the same healthcare center or at the nearest state hospital.

 

3. Test Submission Process:

- You will need to book an appointment at the laboratory or diagnostic center. This can be done in person, by phone, or through the online portal of your regional healthcare system.

- At the appointment, you will need to present your medical record and the doctor's referral.

 

Private Healthcare System

1. Booking an Appointment with a Private Doctor:

- You can choose a private clinic or laboratory at your discretion. Appointments are usually made by phone or online.

- Private clinics often offer more flexible and faster appointment scheduling for tests and examinations.

 

2. Undergoing Examinations:

- In private clinics, a wide range of examinations can be conducted, including comprehensive diagnostic tests such as MRI, CT, ultrasound, and others.

- Private health insurance may cover part or all the costs of examinations depending on your policy.

 

Important Points

- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): For EU and EEA citizens, the EHIC covers emergency and necessary medical care on the same terms as for Spanish citizens. However, this card does not replace private health insurance and does not cover all types of treatment.

 

- Use of Private Laboratories: If you prefer to use private laboratories, make sure you have a referral from your doctor, and clarify payment terms and insurance coverage.

- Preparation for Tests: Some tests may require prior preparation, such as fasting before blood tests. Ensure that you follow all instructions provided by your doctor or the laboratory.

 

In Spain, there are several major medical laboratories providing analysis and diagnostic services. Here are some of them:

Laboratorio Echevarne: One of the largest and most respected laboratories in Spain. It has more than 40 branches across the country, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. The laboratory offers a wide range of services, including clinical analyses, genetic testing, and diagnostic studies.

Synlab: An international network of laboratories represented in Spain. Synlab offers comprehensive diagnostic and laboratory analysis services. They specialize in clinical research, genetics, pathology, and other areas.

Unilabs: Widely represented in Spain and offers various diagnostic services, including laboratory analyses and medical imaging. Unilabs has centers in major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.

Cerba Internacional: This laboratory provides a wide range of medical analyses and diagnostic services. Cerba Internacional is part of the international Cerba Healthcare network, known for its high-quality standards.

Eurofins Megalab: One of the leading providers of laboratory services in Spain. Eurofins Megalab offers a variety of analyses, including biochemical, microbiological, genetic research, and other diagnostic services.

Choosing a hospital and doctor

 

Public hospitals:

1. Choosing a hospital: If you decide to give birth in a public hospital, you are usually assigned a local hospital, but in some cases, you can choose another one if it has better facilities or is closer to your home.

2. Childbirth process: Public hospitals generally prefer natural childbirth and the use of minimally invasive procedures. In most cases, midwives handle the delivery, and a doctor intervenes only in case of complications.

 

Private hospitals:

1. Choosing a hospital and doctor: You can choose any private hospital and doctor who will manage your entire pregnancy and delivery. This offers greater flexibility and personalized attention.

2. Conditions and Services: Private hospitals offer more comfortable conditions, such as private rooms and the possibility of having your doctor present during the birth. Additional services are often provided, such as physiotherapy, nutritional consultation, and psychological support.

 

Health Insurance

 

1. Public Insurance: All residents of Spain have access to the public healthcare system, which covers basic medical services, including childbirth. You need to be registered in the social security system and have a medical card.

 

2. Private Insurance: Many expats prefer private health insurance to avoid long waiting times and get access to a broader range of services. Private insurance often covers additional services such as more frequent ultrasounds, choice of doctor, and improved hospital stay conditions. It is recommended to get insurance early in the pregnancy, as many policies have a waiting period of 8 months.

 

Childbirth Preparation

 

1. Prenatal Checkups: Regular checkups and ultrasounds are a standard part of prenatal care. In public hospitals, usually, three ultrasounds are conducted throughout the pregnancy, while in private clinics, the checkup frequency may be higher.

 

2. Birth Plan: Although birth plans are not as common in Spain, you can prepare your plan and discuss it with your doctor or midwife. This is especially important if you have preferences regarding pain relief methods or other aspects of childbirth.

 

3. Language Support: If you do not speak Spanish, it is recommended to bring someone who can help with translation, especially in emergency situations. This could be a translator or a bilingual friend/family member.

 

4. Necessary Documents: When visiting the hospital for childbirth, remember to bring your passport, NIE card, medical card, and any other medical documents that might be needed.

 

 

 

Partner- Assisted Childbirth

 

Partner-assisted childbirth is becoming increasingly popular in Spain. Depending on whether you are giving birth in a public or private hospital, the procedure might slightly differ. Some hospitals require prior registration of the partner to participate in the childbirth. In most hospitals in Spain, the presence of one partner is allowed during all stages of childbirth. It is recommended to verify the current rules in the chosen hospital in advance.

 

 

Vaccination and Medical Examinations

- In Spain, there is a national vaccination schedule starting from the first days of a child's life. All vaccines are provided free of charge through the public healthcare system.

- Regular medical examinations with a pediatrician are also mandatory and include monitoring the child's growth and development.

In case of a foreigner's death in Spain, several steps need to be taken to ensure the correct processing of all necessary documents and arranging the funeral or repatriation of the body.

 

1. Contact the local authorities:

- In the event of death in a hospital, the hospital staff usually contacts a funeral home and begins the documentation process.

- In the case of death at home, it is necessary to call the police at 112 or 092. The police will contact a doctor to confirm the death and issue a medical certificate of death.

 

2. Obtain the death certificate:

- The death certificate needs to be registered with the local civil registry. This is usually arranged through a funeral home, which also provides copies of the certificate.

 

3. Arranging a funeral or cremation:

- Funerals in Spain are usually held within 24-48 hours after death, although they may be delayed for the arrival of relatives. Both traditional funerals and cremations are possible, depending on the family's and deceased's preferences.

- To perform a cremation for a foreigner in Spain, a set of documents must be collected and the necessary permits obtained:

Medical death certificate: This is a document issued by a doctor confirming the death and stating the cause of death. It is needed for further registration of the death in the civil registry.

Death certificate from the civil registry: After obtaining the medical death certificate, the death must be registered in the local civil registry. This document confirms the official registration of the death.

Cremation permit: To obtain a cremation permit, an application must be submitted to the local authorities. The application may be submitted by the closest relatives or an authorized person. The application must indicate the cause of death and the place where the cremation will take place.

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Document confirming the identity of the deceased: Passport or another document confirming the identity of the deceased. This document is necessary to confirm the identity and subsequent procedures.

Permission to transport remains (if required): If it is planned to transport the remains (for example, for burial or cremation elsewhere), it is necessary to obtain transportation permission from local authorities and complete the appropriate documents.

 

Recommendations. Contact a funeral home: The funeral home will help organize all necessary procedures, including document collection, obtaining permissions, and conducting cremation. They can also provide services for transporting remains if needed.

 

4. Repatriation of the body:

- If it is necessary to return the body to the country of origin, the repatriation process includes additional paperwork and coordination with international funeral agencies. It is important to keep the deceased's passport with you, as it is needed for border crossing.

 

5. Insurance:

- If the deceased had life or travel insurance, the insurance company may cover funeral or repatriation expenses. Contact the insurance company as soon as possible to learn about coverage conditions and organize all necessary procedures.

 

Additional tips

 

- Contact your country's consulate in Spain for assistance and consultation. They can help with documents and general recommendations.

- If you have questions about inheritance or legal procedures, seek assistance from a lawyer specializing in international law.

For dogs

 

1. Vaccinations:

- Rabies: Rabies vaccination is mandatory for all dogs.

- Multicomponent vaccines: Include protection against distemper, infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, and other diseases.

 

2. Procedures:

- Microchip: All dogs must be identified with a microchip. This procedure is mandatory and helps in case of loss or theft of the animal.

 

For cats

 

1. Vaccinations:

- Trivalent vaccine: Provides protection against panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus.

- Leukemia: Recommended for cats that go outside.

- Rabies: Vaccination is not mandatory, but recommended, especially if the cat will travel abroad or come into contact with other animals.

 

2. Procedures

- Microchip: Like dogs, cats must be identified with a microchip. This helps in case of loss or theft of the animal and is a mandatory requirement when traveling abroad.

 

For ferrets

 

1. Vaccinations:

- Rabies: Vaccination is mandatory and is done at the age of 3 months with subsequent annual revaccination.

- Distemper: Recommended for all ferrets, especially those that often come into contact with other animals.

 

General recommendations

 

- Regular check-ups: Veterinarians recommend regular medical check-ups for early detection and prevention of diseases.

- Deworming and parasite control: Regular deworming and treatment for fleas and ticks are necessary to maintain animal health.

 

For additional information and pet care consultations, contact local veterinarians or specialized clinics.

In Spain, there are many hotels and boarding facilities for animals that offer a variety of services for the care of your pets. These establishments provide comfortable accommodation, food, medical supervision, and entertainment activities for your animals while you are away. Here are a few popular options:

 

BringFido:

- This site provides information about numerous pet-friendly hotels throughout Spain. You can find both budget and luxury options, and check for services such as dog walking and veterinary care availability.

 

Animal boarding and hotels:

- Residencia Canina: These are specialized establishments that offer temporary accommodation and care for animals. They provide comfortable living, regular walks, playtime, and, if necessary, medical assistance.

- Dog Vivant: This online resource helps find hotels and apartments that accept pets. You can also find places for walking and entertainment for your pet.

 

Spain also has a network of shelters and rescue organizations that care for homeless and abandoned animals. These organizations provide temporary housing, medical care, and seek permanent homes for the animals. Here are some of them:

 

Valle Verde Animal Rescue:

- A shelter located in Granada, specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation, and finding new homes for homeless dogs and cats. They are actively involved in fundraising and volunteering to ensure the best care and assistance for animals.

 

Sociedad Protectora de Animales y Plantas de Madrid:

- One of the oldest and largest shelters in Madrid, providing shelter and medical assistance to hundreds of animals each year. They also conduct awareness campaigns about responsible pet ownership and the need for sterilization.

 

El Refugio:

- A non-profit organization dedicated to animal rescue throughout Spain. They offer foster and adoption programs as well as educational events to raise awareness of animal rights and the importance of humane treatment.

 

Thus, in Spain, you will find numerous options for temporarily housing your pets, whether in pet hotels or shelters. These facilities provide a high level of care and comfort for your pets. If you are looking for a new friend, shelters offer the opportunity to adopt animals in need of care and love.

Spain has recently updated its animal welfare legislation, introducing new rules aimed at improving the conditions for pets and preventing their mistreatment. Here are the main aspects that pet owners in Spain need to know:

1. Registration and microchipping:

- All pets, including dogs and cats, must be registered and microchipped. This allows for quick identification of the animal in case it is lost and ensures its return to the owner.

2. Vaccination:

- Rabies vaccination is mandatory for all dogs and cats. Other required vaccinations may include vaccination against leptospirosis, parvovirus, and other infections, depending on the region and veterinary recommendations.

3. Courses for dog owners:

- Dog owners must attend a mandatory course on responsible pet ownership, which is provided free of charge and aims to teach the basic principles of pet care and maintenance.

4. Responsibility for animal behavior:

- Owners are required to take measures to ensure their pets do not pose a nuisance or danger to others. This includes cleaning up after the animals in public places and preventing uncontrolled breeding.

Prohibitions and restrictions

1. Ban on the sale of animals in pet stores: The sale of dogs, cats, and ferrets in pet stores is prohibited. These animals can only be acquired from registered breeders, aimed at combating irresponsible breeding and improving animal care conditions.

2. Restrictions on displaying animals: It is forbidden to display animals at commercial events or in pet store windows. This helps reduce stress for the animals and prevents their use for commercial purposes without appropriate care.

 

Animal care regulations

1. Conditions of care: Owners must provide their pets with proper care conditions, including protection from adverse weather conditions, access to clean water and nutrition, as well as adequate hygiene conditions. For animals kept in cages, aquariums, or terrariums, appropriate sizes and environmental enrichment conditions must be provided.

2. Veterinary control: Owners must ensure regular veterinary check-ups and treatment of their pets. This includes mandatory procedures established by public administrations, such as sterilization of cats by the age of six months, unless they are registered as breeding.

 

Import and travel with pets

Requirements for importing animals: When importing pets into Spain from other EU countries or non-EU countries, certain rules must be followed, including having a microchip, rabies vaccination, and appropriate veterinary certificates. Pets must be at least 15 weeks old at the time of entry into the country.