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Healthcare in Spain
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community health system in Spain is excellent, probably better than most in
Europe. The ‘ambulatorio’ or local health center is usually open 24 hours a
day and the hospitals are extremely well run. If you are working in Spain
and paying your Social Security, you will be able to use the health care
system just as the Spanish nationals do, but for the first 12 months it is
advisable to carry the new European Health Card, which replaced the old
E111 on June 1st 2004. |
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Those of you intending to live here and become Spanish residents will be
able to use certain aspects of the health system as citizens of the E.U.
however, if not working or paying into the system it is highly advisable to
obtain private health insurance. There are various private health companies
operating in Spain and they work hand in hand with the national health
service. |
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aware that Dentist’s are all private and you must pay as you go. If you
need a tooth pulling, they will do this for you at the local health center,
but a private dentist must do any other form of treatment. The sign
‘Dentista’ can be seen above the door of any one of these. |
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There are plenty of chemist shops in Spain they are called ‘farmacias’ and
are easily spotted because they all have a flashing lighted sign outside in
the form of a cross – usually green. They operate a rota system so that you
can always find one open (the address of the duty chemist will be on the
door of each shop and also printed in the local newspaper). Alternative
health care shops too, are quite widespread.
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Prescription drugs are available from chemists here, (as in the U.K.) and
some drugs can actually be purchased over the counter without prescription.
However it is always wise to consult a doctor before obtaining drugs of any
sort. If you need a regular prescription filling – carry the label with you
to the chemist, where they can match it up to the local equivalent.
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sure to drink lots of water whilst in Spain, especially in the summer. The
heat can dehydrate you and it is necessary to top up on a regular basis. A
good idea is to carry a bottle of water with you at all times. Tap water is
quite drinkable in some areas, however mineral water can be bought very
cheaply and is available in all supermarkets and most corner shops.
‘Agua sin gas’ Is still water and ‘agua con gas’ is fizzy.
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Contact us:-
Costa Luz Properties,
Rota (Cadiz)
Andalucia, Spain. Tel /Fax: +34.85.611.3999 |
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