Healthcare in Spain for expats

Spain boasts one of the most innovative and remarkable healthcare systems in Western Europe, funded by taxes and government subsidies. Residents and citizens contribute to Seguridad Social, the social security scheme, which finances near-universal health insurance. The public healthcare system, Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), covers most everyday services, including emergency visits, doctor consultations, pediatric visits, nursing and midwife services, and inpatient/ outpatient care. However, it provides only partial coverage for prescriptions (approximately 40%) and prosthetics, wheelchairs, and orthopedic equipment, while services like dental care (outside of emergencies) and eyeglasses/optometry are not covered.

For expats, admission into the SNS can take several months, especially for those not employed locally, making private insurance an attractive option for new residents. Private health insurance plans in Spain typically range from €50 to €200 per month, depending on factors such as age, coverage extent, and the chosen insurance provider. Private insurance often covers services not included in the SNS, such as dental and eye care, and offers faster access to specialists and private hospitals.

Spain’s healthcare pricing is relatively straightforward, making out-of-pocket costs predictable. Some medications can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription, although there are restrictions. Prices are typically lower than in other countries because of the transparent pricing system, making it more financially workable for those who can purchase their medicine there.

In summary, Spain’s healthcare system offers comprehensive coverage through its public SNS, with private insurance serving as a valuable supplement, especially for expats awaiting SNS admission or seeking services beyond the public system’s scope.

Full coverage Partial coverage No coverage Emergency visits Medicine prescriptions (about 40%) Dental care (outside of emergencies) Doctor consultations Prosthetics & wheelchairs Eyeglasses & optometry Full coverage Partial coverage No coverage Pediatric visits Nurse & midwife service Inpatient/outpatient care

• Public System (SNS): Residents and expats employed in Spain and contributing to the social security system are automatically enrolled in the SNS. Those not employed locally may need to wait several months for enrollment, during which private insurance is advisable.
• Private System: No enrollment is required. Expats can pay out-of-pocket or purchase private or international health insurance.