Health Coverage in Spain

Well that's exactly what our health care (http://www.spainexpat.com/spain/information/healthcare_and_insurance_in_spain/) and doctors (http://www.spainexpat.com/spain/information/doctors_in_spain/) pages are about! Hopefully those help.

Thanks for your reply...I didn't see a section on Health right away. I didn't realize it was under 'Living'. Anyway, just a question...I have my Empadronamento Certificate but I am not working yet. I am freelancing right now and will be registering as an autonomo in the next few months. So my question is, if I want to see a doctor BEFORE getting my working status, what do I do? Can I get some sort of doctor or health card WITHOUT working papers, or if I'm sick do I just show up to the clinic with my empadroniamento certificate?

Hey,
Well what do you mean by working status exactly?

As soon as you get your empadronamiento you take it to the local clinic and get your card. They'll give you a sheet of paper in the mean time while you're waiting for your card to arrive, but you can take that sheet to your assigned doctor immediately for care.

Does that make sense?

Yes, that totally makes sense. From the section, it sounded like I needed a Social Security Number (which you can only get if you're NOT working in 'the black', right?) in order to get one of those health cards. I am not currently working legally yet, so I thought I couldn't get the card.

I have another question...I applied for my NIE and I have received my letter with my NIE on it, but still waiting for the card. Not sure now...does it come in the mail or do I have to go and pick it up? Any idea?

You must have your UK card which will cover you for a certain period anyways basic medical is free, I even know of people who have done serious medical or quirurgical interventions for free!!! Contact John.behave@gmail.com he does medical arrangements for expats.

Thanks a lot. I will check things out.

> Contact John.behave@gmail.com he does medical arrangements for expats.


What are "medical arrangements for expats" exactly? Is that different than health insurance?

Yes, you know it is strange I know but foreigners from any country can get medical assistance in Spain for free even for the most impoirtant things, Isn't that amassing???!!! My wife got surgical varicose veins operations for free, Having a baby is free!!! Dental...a Joke!!! This place is incredible if you know the right guy, believe me.

Um, that's not what I mean. I know about free health care. It's like most civilized countries in the world. But what do you mean by John doing medical arrangements? What does he do for you?

Ooops sorry.

Well he will prepare the interview with the doctor, make an appointment, pick you up at the airport and drive you back and forth...do the paperwork in Spanish....etcetera

Why wouldn't you just do that yourself? There is no paperwork other than getting your empadronamiento and taking it to the local clinic. That's nothing extraordinary and all you do is sign your name.

I have a question about my NIE. I got my paper stating what my NIE number is. I was under the impression that I would get an actual card, since I provided photos etc. Am I correct in assuming this? Others have said that I don't actually get a card. Can you clarify?

sorry guys but i was in the doctors for the 4th time this week in madrid and the woman behind the desk was so rude. I had all the paperwork, i didnt have my residency card because it ws stolen but i had the paper to say im a resident here and she refused me, along with my empdramiento, passport. I havent been to the doctor for a week now and really need to see one as im in a lot of pain and ive no idea what to do. As for the best service for doctors, maybe when you get to see one they are good!! But this woman is a noghtmare, i dont know who to complain to??

I suggest you go to the emergency room as they will treat you.

Christian

Hi Ollie, In the Emergency Room, all patients are treated. I was in Mallorca last summer with nothing but my American passport and had a SEVERE allergic reaction to shellfish (difficulty breathing, hives, urticaria, etc. etc.), and I was treated rapidly and quickly with no questions asked. Unlike the U.S....