Health care policy in Spain

Spain enjoys a national healthcare system that provides health services to all Spanish residents. It's based on universal healthcare (non-residents, tourists and even people living in the country illegally) are never denied treatment. 

Tourists from EU countries receive free medical treatment in Spain for up to three months.

It works thanks to the public money. All citizens pay taxes, so every Spanish citizen has the right to have public health care. However, if you aren’t from Spain, even though you live in it, you need to have a Spanish nationality or the European card.

The European Health Insurance Card is valid for holidaymakers and temporary visitors who need to use the state health system. However, it doesn't cover your costs if you are travelling only to obtain medical treatment.

How can I get health care?

• With your personal documents you have to go to a hospital near your domicile.

• You can go to the official place health care or call 012.

• The State will give you a special card for health care for the SNS.

• You are assigned to a doctor and the card will be accredited every time you use it.

• Also, your card will give you the possibility to have some medicines from the pharmacy.

While Spain's healthcare system is recognised as one of the best public health programs in the world, it also has its disadvantages. Most people in Spain who can afford a private healthcare choose this option. 

This preference is not caused by the lack in quality of the public system but mainly due to the long waiting periods patients are often faced with.

Private healthcare companies can offer quick attention, while waiting time at public facilities can often be weeks or months (excluding emergency care)

Spain is one of the safest places in Europe, which always is prepared for the citizens and for visitors.