Health Care In Spain

Your Health In Spain

Health Care In Spain - Even when living in the most idyllic climate, we must never forget that we can still become ill.

It's not much fun getting sick when on holiday and illness and accidents do happen when we least expect them so, be prepared.

Spain is an EU Country and has a reciprocal health agreement with other member states.

The old E111 form entitled EU citizens to free or greatly reduced health care but as of 1 January 2006 the E111 form was replaced with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

This can be applied for online and your card will be delivered to you in seven days. If you prefer telephone 0845 606 2030 and your card will be delivered in 10 days. Or, complete a form in the post office and your card will be delivered in 21 days.

What Does A European Health Insurance Card Cover

If you don't have an EHIC card then you'll be charged at private hospital rates. For private health care you pay your own doctor and hospital bills so it's worth taking out an travel insurance policy which covers you for this.

The EHIC card does not cover you for things like being flown home if you become ill or have an accident. It also doesn't cover you for cancellations, loss of baggage, loss of money and being mugged, so be prepared.

Medical Treatment In Spain

If you intend to live in Spain then it's a good idea to learn Spanish quickly.

This helps with your social and working life and is also very important when making appointments and talking to nurses and doctors.

Many doctors and nurses working in the popular cities and in the south of Spain do speak English but many of them don't.