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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Madrid, Spain | Expat Exchange
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Plaza Mayor in Madrid

Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Madrid

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 04, 2023

Summary: There are numerous hospitals and clinics in Madrid, Spain, including Hospital Universitario La Paz, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, and Hospital Universitario La Princesa. Emergency services in Madrid are generally reliable and efficient. To call for an ambulance, dial 112. The quality of medical care in Madrid is generally comparable to that of the United States, with some differences in the availability of certain treatments and technologies.

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How are healthcare services Madrid?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Madrid, they replied:

"Madrid offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality and is available to all residents of Madrid. The public system provides access to general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency services. Private healthcare is also available in Madrid, with a variety of private clinics and hospitals offering a range of services. Private healthcare is often more expensive than public healthcare, but it can provide more personalized care and shorter wait times. Madrid also has a number of specialized healthcare centers, such as the National Center for Oncological Research, which provides cancer treatment and research. Additionally, Madrid has a number of mental health services, including counseling and therapy," commented one expat who moved to Madrid.

What are medical services in Madrid like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Madrid, they replied:

"Madrid offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality healthcare. Many of these facilities offer specialized services such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Madrid has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. The city also has a number of medical centers that provide emergency services and urgent care," commented one expat living in Madrid, Spain.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Madrid?

"Healthcare in Madrid is generally considered to be of a high quality and is available to all citizens and residents. However, it can be expensive for those who do not have health insurance. Health insurance in Madrid is available through private companies, and the cost of coverage can vary depending on the type of plan chosen. Generally, the cost of health insurance in Madrid is higher than in other parts of Spain, but it is still relatively affordable compared to other countries," mentioned one expat in Madrid.

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What are emergency services like in Madrid?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Madrid wrote:

"Emergency services in Madrid are provided by the Madrid Emergency Service (SAMUR). SAMUR provides medical, fire, and police services. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112, the European emergency number, or 061, the SAMUR emergency number. SAMUR also provides a mobile app, SAMUR-Civil Protection, which allows users to request an ambulance, report an emergency, or request other services," commented one expat who moved to Madrid.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Madrid. People in Madrid can access a wide range of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and many more. For highly specialized medical care, people in Madrid can go to one of the many hospitals in the city, such as Hospital Universitario La Paz, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, or Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre. These hospitals offer a wide range of specialized medical services, including advanced treatments for cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders," said one expat living in Madrid.

Are common prescription medications available in Madrid?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Madrid. Most pharmacies in Madrid carry a wide variety of medications, including both over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Many pharmacies also offer online ordering and delivery services, making it easy to get the medications you need. Additionally, some pharmacies offer specialized services such as compounding and home delivery," said an expat in Madrid.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Madrid?

"Medical care in Madrid is generally of a high standard. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a wide range of specialist clinics and medical centers. Madrid also has a number of well-equipped pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The city also has a number of highly qualified medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. In addition, Madrid has a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to the advancement of medical science," said an expat in Madrid.

As a foreigner living in Madrid, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Madrid, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Spain is known as the National Health System (SNS) and is funded by the government. It provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens and legal residents of Spain. The quality of care is generally good, and the system is well-organized and efficient. The SNS covers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive care," said an expat in Madrid.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Madrid if they have access to public healthcare in Madrid. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"I had to see urgent gynecologist. They did my ultrasound same day .then MRI 1 day later and specialist 1 day later. Super fast!!!! And the cost was all Under $1000 . Incredible compared to US," remarked one expat in Madrid.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Madrid. The healthcare system has had to adapt to the changing needs of the population, with an increased demand for services and resources. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure that the healthcare system is able to cope with the increased demand, including the introduction of telemedicine services and the expansion of hospital capacity. In addition, the government has provided additional funding to support the healthcare system, including the provision of additional staff and equipment. Despite these measures, the healthcare system in Madrid has been under considerable strain, with long waiting times for appointments and a shortage of medical supplies," remarked one expat living in Madrid.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Madrid?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Madrid about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Madrid and the options available to you for prenatal care and delivery. 2. Consider hiring a doula or birth assistant to help you navigate the healthcare system and provide support during labor and delivery. 3. Look into the different types of childcare available in Madrid, such as daycare centers, nannies, and babysitters. 4. Take advantage of the many parks and outdoor spaces in Madrid to get out and enjoy the city with your baby. 5. Connect with other expat parents in Madrid to get advice and support. 6. Familiarize yourself with the Spanish language and culture to help you and your baby adjust to life in Madrid," said one expat in Madrid.

Are healthcare services good in Madrid?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Madrid. They wrote:

"Madrid offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality and is free for all citizens. Private healthcare is also available and is provided by a variety of private hospitals and clinics. Madrid has a number of specialized hospitals and clinics that provide specialized care for specific medical conditions. Additionally, Madrid has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter medications," said one person in Madrid.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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