Spain Guide: Health

One of the most important things when going abroad is to make sure that you are covered in case of accidents or illness. Our health guide provides information on health insurance, hospitals, doctors and pharmacies.

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  The Spanish medical system

  How public and private systems work

  In Spain, there is a parallel public health care system and a network of private health insurance companies. You don’t have to have private health care to obtain medical treatment in Spain, but it does enable you to get quicker treatment for non-emergency procedures, specialist consultancies and analytic tests.

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  Accessing healthcare in Spain

  How to access public and private healthcare

  In 2018 a new legislation granting universal access to the healthcare system was passed in Spain. Most residents in Spain have free access to the public healthcare system. However, certain exceptions may apply.

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  Pharmacies in Spain

  Prescription costs and treatment advice for many common illnesses

  For minor ailments, many people go to their local pharmacy (farmacia), these are easily recognisable by the green flashing cross displayed outside or in the window.

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  Sexual health in Spain

  Everything you need to know to stay safe and healthy

  Sexual health is important no matter where you are in the world, and knowing what the landscape is like when moving abroad is vital to ensure your health and safety.

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  Basic medical term glossary

  Essential Spanish vocabulary when going to the doctor

  When moving into a different country, it’s essential to know some of the basics in terms of language. The medical term is a field that might be useful to you in case of an emergency for another person or even for you, in the situation of having to explain to a doctor if something is wrong and the way you feel. And most importantly, to be able to understand the doctor when giving a prescription and explaining what the situation is.

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