Understanding the health system is crucial when moving abroad or visiting a different country. If the country of choice is Spain, one of the most interesting health features is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Nevertheless, expats and visitors have to meet some criteria in order to get the EHIC, and its coverage is limited.
Understanding the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The two main questions that arise are related to who can use EHIC and the convenience of using the EHIC in Spain.
What is the EHIC and Who Can Use It?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a free card that residents in different countries can apply for to access basic health care during temporary stays in the participating countries.
It was created to ensure travelers receive the same quality healthcare as the local residents when in need. EHIC validity and duration vary depending on the country of origin.
Who qualifies for an EHIC?
People insured under the public health systems in any member country of the European Union, as well as Norway, Switzerland, the UK, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
This means residents in other countries do not qualify for an EHIC when visiting Spain.
Countries Covered by the EHIC
So the countries covered by EHIC are:
- EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
- Non EU countries: Norway, Switzerland, the UK, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
Residents in non EU countries cannot use EHIC in other participating non EU countries (e.g. a Norwegian resident cannot use EHIC to access Iceland’s medical system).
Using the EHIC in Spain
The EHIC just guarantees access to the public insurance medical system in each country, but cost and coverage of medical care might vary depending on each country.
What the EHIC Covers in Spain
EHIC covers in Spain all medically necessary treatments, such as emergency care, in the public healthcare system.
The necessity of each treatment is determined based on medical criteria noticing the duration of the stay.
So EHIC covers the basic urgent healthcare for tourists in Spain, but it has several limitations.
Medical Procedures and Services Not Covered by the EHIC
Regarding the procedures and services, it is essential to acknowledge the EHIC limitations.
What EHIC does not cover includes unnecessary treatments and services provided by private healthcare in Spain.
If you are travelling with the EHIC, you must visit only public clinics and hospitals.
Examples of Situations Where the EHIC Is Insufficient
Although it allows you to be covered in case of tourist medical emergencies in Spain, the EHIC is insufficient in different situations.
For example, if you have an accident and break a leg, the emergency care will be covered, but further treatment such as rehabilitation will not.
Regarding expat healthcare in Spain, if you have a condition that requires specialised attention and follow-ups, the EHIC will not be enough.
Limitations of the EHIC
The EHIC is not suitable for all situations, and there are some limitations that must be considered.
Emergency Situations: Medical Repatriation and Rescue Services
Getting the European Health Insurance Card does not equal getting travel insurance. This means it does not cover your medical repatriation from Spain in case of a medical situation.
In addition, with the EHIC rescue coverage is neither included, meaning you will have to pay for rescues, emergency airlifts or any other additional services other than the strictly necessary healthcare.
The emergency costs in Spain for necessary care are covered but, if you require further treatment in your own country, you will have to cover the expenses.
The Gap Between Public and Private Healthcare in Spain
You will have access to public healthcare in Spain, and the EHIC public coverage means that the cost is the same as if you were a citizen of the country you are visiting.
Anyway, getting private insurance in Spain has many advantages, including the fact that it will improve your coverage, allow you to make faster appointments with specialists, or choose clinics and doctors, including those who offer attention in English.
Coverage Issues for Expats With Long-Term Needs
The EHIC long-term limitations are important, considering it is designed for short-term travellers. This means it is not a safe option if you are looking for healthcare for expats.
Expat healthcare in Spain options depend on the country you are from and your legal situation, but most foreigners living in Spain rely on private insurance.
Unexpected Costs That the EHIC Doesn’t Cover
EHIC costs not covered might mean unexpected healthcare costs in Spain.
As stated above, rescue and repatriations are not covered, and so are services provided by private clinics and doctors, dental care or specialist appointments.
Solutions Beyond the EHIC
At Just Insurance Spain, we always design tailored insurance plans to meet the needs of our clients.
Personalized Insurance Plans for Expats and Tourists
While tourist insurance in Spain might be enough combining the EHIC and travel insurance, private insurance for expats should include a broader coverage if planning to stay longer or depending on specific healthcare needs.
Advantages of Choosing Private Health Insurance in Spain
When choosing health insurance in Spain for foreigners, comparing EHIC vs private insurance will help you get an idea on the private health insurance advantages, including reduced waiting times, English-speaking professionals, specialist appointments,…
And you can always design a tailor-made policy to cover your specific needs.
How Just Insurance Can Help You Find the Right Coverage
At Just Insurance Spain we will help you find the best expat insurance in Spain, contact Just Insurance now and visit this amazing country knowing everything is taken care of.
