Although the public health system in Spain is one of the best in the world, it has gaps and shortcomings, such as long waiting times for specialist appointments and operations. This can be closed by a private health (supplementary) insurance, which is offered by various insurance companies in different benefit categories, namely from standard basic insurance with co-payment up to a complete insurance with 100% reimbursement with free choice of doctor, on medicines and others.
Those who intend to apply for a residencia are obliged to prove that they have health insurance.
With a large selection of private doctors, clinics and health centres, urgent examinations and treatments can be carried out within a reasonable period of time so as not to risk one’s own health, and regardless of the fact that this should not be too expensive, costs for private health care can even be claimed against tax under certain conditions.
Private health insurance is particularly interesting for pensioners living abroad who, due to the language barrier, are reluctant to use facilities of the public health system and would perhaps have certain examinations carried out in their home country. However, one should decide in good time to take out private health insurance before the age limit for admission is reached.
Certain pre-existing conditions can limit the benefits. This is an additional reason not to wait until the first aches and pains become apparent before considering health insurance.
Pensioners who have statutory social insurance in their country of origin should seek professional advice from their insurance agency in advance. Giving up this is not advisable in every case, as the return is denied should one decide to move back to the old home country after all.
