All you need to know about
health insurance in Spain

Understanding the mutual insurance system in Spain

Moving to Spain as an expatriate is a great adventure, but it’s important to be well prepared, especially when it comes to healthcare. Even if the country has an excellent healthcare system, the right mutual insurance can make all the difference in terms of getting rapid access to specialists, avoiding long waits and benefiting from more comprehensive day-to-day coverage.

The Spanish public health system

The Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) provides free medical coverage for residents affiliated to the Spanish Social Security system. This coverage includes general consultations, specialized care and hospitalization, as long as the patient follows the established care pathway. Each insured person is assigned an attending physician and a referral health center, depending on their place of residence.

The limits of the public system

The Spanish public health system (SNS) provides access to high-quality care, but it does not cover everything. You may have to pay for certain services, or you may have to wait a long time for treatment:

• Dental care: Most treatments are not covered, except in emergencies.
• Optical care: Only certain expenses may be covered, and often only to a limited extent.
• Waiting times: Getting an appointment with a specialist or scheduling an operation can take several weeks, even months.

That’s why many people choose to supplement their coverage with a mutuelle or private health insurance to benefit from faster, more comprehensive care.

The importance of private health insurance

To avoid the limitations of the public system, many residents of Spain opt for private health insurance. It offers a number of advantages that make day-to-day life easier:

• Rapid access to specialists: No need to wait months for an appointment, you can quickly consult a doctor or specialist.
• Free choice of practitioners and facilities: You have the freedom to choose your doctor, hospital or private clinic, with no constraints.
• More comprehensive cover: Unlike the public system, these insurances cover treatments that are often excluded, such as dental care, optical care or specific treatments.

The main mutual insurance companies in Spain

Spain’s leading mutual insurers include Asisa, Sanitas and Adeslas. Notable insurance companies include AEGON SALUD and MAPFRE SALUD.

Choosing the right health insurance

Choosing health insurance in Spain is not something to be done lightly. To make sure you find the coverage that’s right for you, ask yourself the right questions:

• What are your needs? If you regularly consult doctors or need specialized care, opt for a mutual insurance company that covers it.
• What medical network is offered? Check that the insurance gives you access to facilities and practitioners close to home and recognized for their quality of care.
• What cover is included? Dental care, optical care, hospitalization… Make sure that the expenses that matter to you are covered.
• How much does it cost? Compare rates, but also any hidden charges or limits that could impact your health budget.

International health insurance

If you’re an expatriate or a frequent traveler, taking out international health insurance can be a real peace of mind. It covers you both in Spain and when you travel abroad, ensuring that you’re always well protected, wherever you are. Don’t hesitate to compare the international health insurance offers available in Spain on Santexpat.fr.

Expatriate health insurance for Spain

Understanding the mutual insurance system in Spain is essential to ensure that your health cover is tailored to your needs. Whether you opt for the public system, local private insurance or international insurance, it’s important to assess your personal needs and choose coverage that offers you peace of mind when it comes to your health.