Private Health Care Spain

Spanish Healthcare

Following the recent announcement that European nationals who move to Spain are no longer automatically entitled to state-funded healthcare, private medical insurance has become an essential component of an expat’s portfolio.

The new ministerial order (Spanish Order 1490 issued on 9 July 2012) states that anybody moving to Spain for more than three months, who is not employed in Spain, is obliged to provide documents to prove they are covered by private healthcare, or have enough money not to be a burden on the Spanish government.

This ruling initially came under criticism for defying the principle of ‘free movement’ within the EU, and contravening the EU law which states that all citizens of member states have the right to health treatment in any of the member countries. Spain however, has appealed, citing article 7 of the 2004 EU directive which states that EU member countries are allowed their own definition of free movement provided that there is no prejudice to national border controls. Essentially, it means that the Spanish government is entitled to impose entry conditions on other EU citizens.

The move, whilst controversial, means that Spain could be looking to save €1 billion per year on the cost of medical care for expats.

Expats therefore, are now obliged to take out their own health insurance, and are advised to choose a provider who will cover all medical eventualities, as there will be no support from the state.

Under the Sanitas brand, Bupa is Spain’s leading healthcare insurer, providing hospitals, clinics and health services to expats through a range of insurance plans. And the plan provides cover not only in Spain, but also in one other European country of your choice. Putting your health in the hands of award-winning Bupa International means you can be reassured you are covered by a recognised and respected private medical insurer.

STM Nummos Life SL is a well-established intermediary for Bupa International and Sanitas, and drawing on vast product knowledge and a close working relationship with the Bupa Group, is able to find the plan which best suits your needs. And after you have taken out the plan, the team at Nummos stay with you. Working with Bupa on your behalf, they will respond to your queries and make the necessary arrangements for whatever service you require, from pre-authorisation for medical treatment, to assistance in making the claim, along with any updates and advice on your policy and renewal. Quite simply, you can relax and enjoy your life in Spain, safe in the knowledge that whatever medical requirements may be round the corner, you’re covered.

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