Go-to-Spain ::: Article: Health matters

If you are resident in any EEU country you are entitled to free medical care whilst on holiday in Spain, under a reciprocal arrangement.

From January 2006 the E111 has been replaced by a European Union Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Full details and online application here or apply at a main Post Office.

The EHIC covers medical expenses for 90 days only, and only in a state hospital (not private). It is therefore very important to have full insurance when you travel abroad. Competitive insurance.

If you are resident in Spain and you are of pensionable age, healthcare is free. It is also free under the Spanish Social Security System if you are not self-employed, or you are not in paid employment. For this you will need a Targeta Sanitaria which is available from the local main medical centre. You will need to show your passport and a recently issued Empadronamiento (registration) certificate.

If you have been on prescriptive medication in the UK for a chronic condition such as asthma or diabetes and you move to Spain, you are entitled to receive this medication free of charge. You will need a form E112 from the Post Office, which your UK doctor will have to sign.

The Spanish National Health Service is good, but it is very important to have adequate private medical insurance, or you may end up with some large bills to pay. Indeed, some hospitals may decline treatment if you are not covered by insurance. Insurance is obtainable from many companies, but one of the major ones is a BUPA-owned company called Sanitas. Just as a guide, monthly payments for a family of four are about 170 euros per month, and about 75 euros per month for one person.