There are many people from around the world living in Spain these days. If you are one of those, have you ever wondered about the Spanish health care system? What would happen if you were to fall sick, or in the case of a medical emergency? What would your entitlements be? Well have no fear; here is some basic information to get you started.
The social security system in Spain offers health care, and there are many public hospitals, clinics and doctors' surgeries. In general the system works well, although waiting lists do exist and can cause delays in obtaining treatment for illnesses which are not classified as urgent.
There also exists a well-developed system of private care. There are a number of specialist health-care companies, and insurance companies offering health-care policies. For a monthly payment access is provided to the major private hospitals and clinics, as well as to specialist doctors and family doctors.
The private system in Spain works alongside the state system, so paying for private care does not exclude the patient from visiting his local social security doctor or from obtaining treatment in a public hospital; and for certain types of operation the state hospitals are recommended.
The private system in Spain generally offers rapid treatment, and the comfort level (private room, facilities for overnight stay of family members etc) of private hospitals is normally higher than for public hospitals.
Health care policies can include dental cover, offering free basic treatment and fixed (discounted) prices for more complicated treatment.
If you are still unsure, my advice to you is to speak to someone who knows about this. There are many English speaking professionals that offer advice on Spanish health care alternatives - they will be able to advise you on the best options to suit you and your family. So don't wait until it's too late; speak to someone now.

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