If you are moving to Spain or staying for an extended period, one of the most important questions is:
how is health care?
The short answer is: it works well, but it is important to understand how to access it.
Public or private health care?
Spain has two systems:
- public health
- private healthcare
Most people use a combination of the two.
Public health
The state system:
- basically good quality
- free or low-cost in many cases
- longer waiting times
Access is usually subject to employment or a registered address.
Important: a person can only be insured with public health insurance in one country at a time.
It is not possible to have Hungarian and Spanish state insurance at the same time.
Private healthcare
Private care:
- faster
- more flexible
- mostly paid or insured
Many people choose private insurance for faster care.
Need insurance?
It depends on your status in Spain.
- as a worker you have access to the public system
- private insurance is often necessary in other cases
Important: for shorter stays, you should get the European Health Insurance Card (EU card), which can be applied for in Hungary.
What is the quality?
Spain's healthcare system is also considered to be of high quality at European level.
- modern care
- skilled professionals
- well-developed infrastructure
Common mistake
Many people move without thinking about health care in advance.
This can cause problems if an unexpected situation arises.
Important to clarify
Health care is available and works, but it is not automatic for everyone.
In the event of an emergency, care is provided, but regular and full access requires a sound insurance background.
It's therefore worth clarifying in advance what form you can take.
Summary
- good quality system
- public and private care available
- access depends on the situation
