Health and Medical Treatment in Spain

From the common cold to influenza and broken bones to allergies and everything in between, many different ailments can cause an individual to become ill and see a doctor or make a visit to a hospital or emergency facility. You can become sick, even as a student studying in Spain. The healthcare system in Spain is much the opposite of what you will find in other countries, making it essential that you familiarize yourself with it should Spain be your university destination.

You will find comfort in knowing that health and medical treatment in Spain is top notch. There are many fine doctors, hospitals and healthcare providers found throughout the country, making it easy to get the appropriate treatment needed for your condition and get back to your normal life. If knowing that you are going to receive the best of care were not enough, take comfort in knowing that healthcare costs are also very affordable.

The hospitals, doctors offices and specialty centers in Spain are all state-of-the art facilities that use the latest in technology and equipment to ensure the best of care for each and every patient that is seen by the doctor. You can expect professional doctors and friendly staff members willing to help you with all of your medical needs small and large.

European Health Card

If you are a student in Spain you need the EHC, or the European Health Card. This card titles the recipient access to the great  healthcare found in the country. When you have the card you can get all of your healthcare costs reduced, and sometimes at no cost. While most medical services are covered with this card, dental services are not covered. Prescriptions are covered under the plan, with 60% paid and the remaining 40% your responsibility to cover. If you need emergency services while in Spain you will be covered only when you use the public health facilities near you.

Many health centers are available for individuals to obtain dental services from at no cost. You must have your social security number readily available to take advantage of the free dental care. Some Spanish hospitals also offer emergency dental treatment.  Because of the excessive waiting periods most people coming to Spain for a short while choose private health insurance to cover their dental insurance coverage needs.

Whether you are visiting a health center, a doctor’s office or a hospital it is necessary that you show your EHC every time that you visit. If you do not have this card available to show you are responsible for the entire amount of the bill and the amount will not be covered under the European health care system.

With the EHC you can obtain treatment for both new and existing medical conditions. Also, the card is usable for the entire duration of your stay in Spain, so once you have the card you have nothing to worry about.

To obtain the EHC card you can apply online. Phone applications are also accepted if you prefer to use this route. In order to apply you will need to provide your name, NHS number and your date of birth. There is no cost to apply for or receive the card.

It is a good idea to start the application process for the EHC several months before your intended arrival. It can take up to two months to process the application, but of course you do not want to push things this close to the time limit.

Private Insurance

If you prefer, private insurance is also available. You may wish to attain private insurance for any number of reasons, including to gain more or better coverage for your health care needs. People also choose to get private insurance when they want more freedom in the selection of the doctors and hospitals they will use.

Many different companies offer health insurance to students in Spain. Each company will offer a variety of services included in the plan, as well as those that are not. It is imperative that you check with a few different companies in order to find the best plan for your need, including that which meets your budget requirements.

Consider SegurCaixa Adeslas, a premier health insurance provider in Spain. With a profound understanding of the distinct requirements of foreign students, they present customized insurance solutions meticulously designed to harmonize seamlessly with the prerequisites of Student Visa and NIE/TIE (residence permit) application/renewal.

For more information, visit the Website of SegurCaixa Adeslas

When you opt for private health insurance it is essential that you always make comparisons. You can easily make comparisons on the web, and with those comparisons you can easily get an insurance policy at a cost affordable to your budget. A comparison makes it possible to learn the different companies and what they offer so you are never disappointed with the end results.

The amount that you will spend to obtain private insurance will vary according to the services that you wish to have covered in the plan, the company that you purchase from and a number of other things, so make sure that you choose carefully.

There are a number of benefits associated with private insurance. As we mentioned the ability to choose from a larger array of doctors and hospitals is one of those benefits, and you will also enjoy shorter wait times for health care and more.

Getting Treated in Spain

Take a look at the average costs of some of the most common medical procedures being performed.

• General doctor Visit -35 Euros
• Tooth Whitening -330 Euros
• Filling -49 Euros
• Varicose Vein Removal -1400 Euros

Compare those costs to others in Europe and other areas of the world and you will see that healthcare in the country is more than reasonable.

Spain has amazing healthcare services throughout, whether you have a minor medical issue or a chronic health problem, and with the great options for health care coverage you can be certain that your time as a student in Spain will be spent in the best of health.

It is a good idea that you take a look at the European health card, as well as private insurance, just to be on the safe side. While we never plan for a medical emergency or need coming our way It is something that you just cannot predict. With these options you can be certain that you are always covered.