Where to get medical help in Spain

The Spanish healthcare system stands out for its medical and technological advances that make the healthcare system both well-structured and efficient. If you're staying in Spain temporarily, you are required to have health coverage for the entire duration of your stay. There are two options available, public and private. This depends on whether you are an EU or Non-EU citizen. Wondering how to access the Spanish healthcare system as an EU or Non-EU citizen? This article will explain a bit more about how and where to get medical help in Spain.

EU Citizen 

Choice between public or private health insurance 

If you are a citizen of the European Union, good news! You can access public healthcare during your stay in Spain. :) To get it, make sure you get your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in your home country prior to your departure to Spain. This card is free and will cover you within the EU for short periods of time and simple treatments. Be aware that it's not a substitute for private health insurance in Spain! Apply for and read everything about the EHIC card here.  

Non-EU Citizen 

Required to have private health insurance 

If you are not a citizen of the European Union, you won’t be able to access public health insurance in Spain as a student. Luckily, you don´t have to worry! There are other ways for you to receive health care. :) If you are planning to move to Spain for more than 3 months, you will need to purchase private health insurance that covers your entire stay. In fact, this is a mandatory requirement for your visa application. Below, you will find some recommended Spanish insurance companies. Don't stress the contracting process; it is simple. Just call them and ask for a personalized price according to your situation, and they will guide you from there. 

Important: Private health insurance in Spain will cover costs like pharmacy prescriptions, visits to the dentist, and more. What's covered will depend on what's in your contract, so make sure everything that you need is covered by your private health insurance when signing the contract. 

Making an appointment for medical help 

Making an appointment for any kind of medical care is very simple! Whether you want to go to the dentist for a quick checkup or make an appointment with a general practitioner, there are a number of ways to do it. Just pick the way that is easiest for you.

Making an appointment in public health care 

  1. By phone. Call + 34 915 410 291 and follow the steps; 
  2. Visit a health centre; 
  3. Make an appointment online through Ciudadanos; 
  4. Download one of two apps to make an appointment (available for free in Play Store, App Store and AppGallery) 
    - Tarjeta Sanitaria Virtual 
    - Cita Sanitaria Madrid 

Making an appointment in private health care 

Access the website or application of your private health insurance company and apply online or by calling the telephone number provided. 

Emergency support and crisis lines

Finally, you will find some essential emergency contact numbers below, including numbers for urgent medical assistance and other crisis situations. 
 
Police: 112 
Police (non-emergency): 091 
Civil Guard: 062 
Fire Department: 112 
Ambulance: 112  
Suicide Prevention: 024  
Helpline for victims of sexual violence: 016  
 

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