About Health Care In Spain …
Even when living in the most idyllic climate, we must never forget that we can still become ill even in Spain.
It’s not much fun getting sick when on holiday and illness and accidents do happen when we least expect them so be prepared.
The old E111 form entitled EU citizens to free or greatly reduced health care.
From 1 January 2006 the E111 form was replaced with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea (TSE) in Spain.
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
A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles you to reduced-cost (sometimes free) medical treatment (in a hospital).
This applies only if you are staying in a European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.
If you go to the doctor you must present your EHIC and ask for state-funded healthcare.
If you go to hospital you must present your EHIC on admission or you will be charged as a private patient at private hospital rates.
A GP referral is needed for non-emergencies.
For private health care you pay your own doctor and hospital bills so it’s worth taking out a travel insurance policy which covers you for this.
The EHIC 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 should need medical treament in Spain you’ll find Spanish hospitals very modern, well-equipped and the doctors are excellent.
For health care in Spain 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.
So if you intend to live in Spain, it’s a good idea to learn Spanish.
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