Healthcare Information

Understanding Spain’s healthcare system is essential for navigating life in Castellón—this guide breaks down everything from public access and private care to pharmacies, dental services, and fertility options.

Healthcare in Spain

Spain boasts one of the highest life expectancies in Europe, thanks in part to its excellent healthcare system. Recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the best globally, Spanish hospitals are well-equipped with modern technology and provide a high standard of care. Many hospitals have English-speaking staff or offer translation services for non-Spanish speakers.

Overview of Spain’s Healthcare System

The Spanish government allocates a significant portion of its GDP to healthcare, ensuring a high number of qualified medical professionals who must pass rigorous examinations. Each of Spain’s 17 Autonomous Communities is responsible for managing its own healthcare services. Residents, including both working and retired foreigners with a social security number, can access free or subsidized medical care through the national system (Sistema Nacional de Salud). Depending on the treatment, 75% to 100% of the costs may be covered.

How to Access Public Healthcare in Spain

To receive state healthcare, individuals must obtain a social security number by applying at their local Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social office. Required documents typically include a passport, NIE (foreigner identification number), proof of residence, and registration with the local municipal office (padrón). Once registered at a public health center (centro de salud or CAP which depends on where you live), patients receive a SIP (Sistema de Información Poblacional) health card, which grants them access to state-funded medical services.

For non-urgent medical concerns, the assigned general practitioner (médico de cabecera) should be the first point of contact. Referrals to specialists within the public healthcare system are arranged through these doctors. EU citizens can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive medical treatment in Spain for up to 90 days, after which they must apply for residency.

Public Healthcare for Foreign Residents

Foreigners residing in Spain may qualify for free public healthcare if they meet any of the following conditions:

• They are employed or self-employed and contribute to social security.
• They receive certain Spanish government benefits.
• They are divorced or separated from someone registered with social security.
• They are a child or a pregnant resident.
• They are under 26 and studying in Spain.
• They are retired and receiving a state pension.

Those who do not meet these criteria can opt into the convenio especial, a public healthcare scheme requiring a monthly payment of approximately €60 for individuals under 65 and €157 for those over 65. Applicants must have been registered on a padrón (municipal census) for at least a year. Otherwise, private health insurance is necessary, and in some cases, proof of insurance is required for visa applications.

Private Healthcare in Spain

Many Spaniards and expatriates choose private healthcare for shorter waiting times and a wider range of treatment options. Some international companies in Spain provide private health insurance as part of employee benefits. When selecting a provider, many expats turn to established companies such as:

• Sanitas (a subsidiary of the global Bupa Group)
• Adeslas
• Mapfre
• Cigna Salud
• ASSSA

Fertility Treatment & Surrogacy Laws

Spain is a leading destination for fertility treatments, offering services comparable in quality to those in other advanced countries. Certain fertility treatments may even be covered by the state healthcare system for eligible residents. Spanish laws are among the most inclusive, allowing single women and LGBTQ+ couples to access these services.

However, surrogacy is illegal in Spain. Individuals seeking surrogacy must look to international agencies in countries where the practice is permitted, such as the United States. These agencies handle the legal procedures to ensure a smooth transition when bringing the child back to Spain.

Pharmacies & Access to Information

In Spain, prescriptions (receta médica) can be obtained at a farmacia (pharmacy). Some medications, including antibiotics, may be available without a doctor’s prescription. Hospitals generally do not issue prescriptions directly; instead, patients receive a medical note, which they must take to a general practitioner or pharmacy.

For those covered by the state healthcare system, prescription costs are partially subsidized, with the percentage varying based on income and age.

Most pharmacies operate from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM on weekdays, with limited hours on Saturdays and closures on Sundays. Emergency 24-hour pharmacies (farmacias de guardia) are available, with locations posted online or displayed on pharmacy doors.

Dental Care in Spain

Most dental services in Spain are private. While children and emergency dental procedures for adults are covered by the public healthcare system, routine and specialized treatments typically require private insurance or out-of-pocket payment.