Spanish
Medical Facilities
First port of call for Spanish medical facilities will
be the “Centro de Salud” (Health Centres)
and these are present in most towns along the coast.
These centres will accept a Form E1-11 if you are visiting
the country (for further information on E1-11 Forms
look on the Government website www.dh.gov.uk).
If you are registered under the Spanish Social Security
system the Health Centre is where you will visit the
Doctor allocated to you by the Spanish Health Service.
Many residents in Spain take out private health cover
and each individual company will provide a list of the
centres and hospitals in your area which they utilise.
Many websites offer to obtain quotes for Expats living
or working abroad (e.g. www.phaexpat.com).
It is worthwhile taking the time to investigate fully
the facilities on offer, their relevance to your region
and, of course, value for money. There are many private
clinics along the coast offering 24 hour service but
you should ensure that your private health insurance
covers you for any consultations prior to commencement
of treatment.
Cosmetic surgery is a growth industry, especially amongst
the Expat community in Spain. However, as in the UK,
you should carefully check credentials prior to undergoing
surgery.
Medical pregnancy liaison in Spain is solely with obstetricians
and there is a very pedantic approach to birth, with
unnecessary routines and procedures a national standard
which must be strictly adhered to, however archaic.
Natural birthing techniques are strictly frowned upon
and some hospitals refuse to admit partners or husbands
to the birthing area. Spain has one of the largest ratios
of caesarean section in the world.
For alternative health enthusiasts, you will be glad
to hear that everything from Acupuncture to Reiki is
widely available throughout the Costas. Please bear
in mind, however, that prices can be high and, again,
prospective practitioners should be vetted prior to
commencement of treatment.
One advantage to living in Spain is that the Pharmacists
here undergo longer training than those in the UK and
are allowed to sell “over the counter” many
products that you would need a Doctor’s prescription
for in the UK (e.g. antibiotics). However, it is, of
course, recommended that should you have any health
problems, you should consult a Doctor.
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