The public healthcare system in Spain is managed by the Ministry of Health and is divided into two levels:
- Primary healthcare level is provided by health centres and doctor's offices, where general practitioners, nurses, and other healthcare professionals provide basic medical care.
- Specialised healthcare level is provided by hospitals, where more complex medical procedures are performed.
Patients can access the public healthcare system by showing their Spanish national health insurance card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual, or TSI). The TSI entitles them to free or subsidised healthcare services, such as doctor's visits, hospitalisations, surgeries, and medications.
The private healthcare sector in Spain is complementary to the public system. Private hospitals, clinics, and doctors provide a range of services, including:
- Private medical insurance: Private health insurance plans offer coverage for additional healthcare services, such as private hospitals and clinics, specialist consultations, and elective surgeries.
- Self-funded healthcare: Individuals can choose to pay for private healthcare services directly without having private health insurance.
The cost of private healthcare in Spain varies depending on the type of service and the provider. Private health insurance premiums can range from a few hundred euros to several thousand euros per year, depending on the level of coverage and the patient's age and medical history.
The quality of healthcare in Spain is generally high, with the public healthcare system ranked among the best in the world. Waiting times for certain specialised treatments can be long, but most patients are able to access the healthcare services they need.
Overall, Spain has a well-developed and efficient healthcare system that provides high-quality care to its citizens and residents.
