Public healthcare in Spain
Public healthcare in Spain is largely funded through social security contributions and is either free or very low cost at the point of use.
You are generally entitled to public healthcare if you:
- work or are self employed and pay social security
- receive Spanish social benefits or a state pension
- are under 26 and studying in Spain
- are a resident and pregnant
Once registered, you receive a health card that allows access to doctors, specialists, and hospitals within the public system.
Prescription medication is also subsidised, making it significantly cheaper than in many northern European countries.
How does the system work?
Healthcare is organised locally through CAPs (Centres d’Atenció Primària), primary care centres found in almost every town.
Your CAP is your first point of contact for:
- GP appointments
- referrals to specialists
- non urgent medical advice
Specialist care and hospital treatment usually require a referral from your assigned doctor.
Private healthcare options
If you are not entitled to public healthcare, private health insurance is widely available in Spain and often reasonably priced compared to other countries.
Many people choose private healthcare for:
- shorter waiting times
- access to English speaking doctors
- more flexibility in choosing specialists
Some residents also combine public healthcare with private insurance for added peace of mind.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
If you are visiting Spain temporarily from another EU country, it is strongly recommended to carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
The EHIC gives access to public healthcare if treatment becomes medically necessary during your stay. It does not replace travel insurance, but it ensures you are covered for essential care.
Spanish residents travelling within the EU should apply for the Spanish equivalent card before travelling.
Seeing a doctor in Catalunya
Most people access healthcare through their local CAP, either by phone or in person. Waiting times vary by area, but urgent issues are prioritised.
Private clinics and independent doctors also operate throughout Catalunya. Availability of English-speaking staff can vary, though coastal and tourist areas tend to be more accommodating.
Emergencies
For emergencies, you can go directly to the hospital’s Urgencias (Emergency Department).
The emergency number in Spain, as in the rest of the EU, is 112.
Hospitals with emergency departments are located along the Costa Brava and in larger inland towns, ensuring coverage across the region.
What is not covered
Public healthcare in Spain generally does not cover:
- dental care
- optician services
These services are usually paid privately unless covered by a private insurance policy.
There is currently a temporary subsidy of up to €100 for glasses or contact lenses for children up to 16 years old in Spain under the Plan Veo programme, running until the end of 2026.
Good to know
- Healthcare quality is high throughout Catalunya
- Public healthcare is accessible and well organised
- Private options are widely used and affordable
- Emergency care is reliable and fast
Understanding how the system works helps you feel more confident and prepared, whether you live here full-time or are just passing through.