Congratulations!
You’ve made it to Spain with your visa approved and your private health insurance in place—a major milestone. But what now?
Your policy is more than just paperwork for immigration; it’s your gateway to healthcare during your stay. Here’s how to make sure you’re fully prepared and know how to use your health insurance effectively before you ever need it.
1. Locate Your Nearest Affiliated Doctor
Don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell to find a doctor. Now that you’re settled, take a moment to locate the nearest affiliated general practitioner (GP) or clinic in your insurer’s network.
Most Spanish health insurers offer an online search tool that lets you filter by location and specialty. At My Insurance Spain, we’ve created simple video guides showing you how to use these tools for major insurers. (head to the footer of any of our pages to find the links)
✅ Tip: Bookmark your doctor’s name, address, and phone number. Some clinics allow you to book appointments online or via a mobile app.
2. Accessing Medical Care in Spain: How It Works
Here’s a quick look at how to use your insurance in Spain:
- Routine Appointments
Call or book online with a GP or specialist in your insurer’s network. Referrals aren’t usually needed unless your insurer requires it for specific specialties. - Diagnostic Tests
These are often covered under your plan, but some may require pre-authorization. Your doctor will advise you on what’s needed. Usually you need to provide a copy of the medical report and the request slip to the insurance company. Either via their mobile phone app, website, email or by calling them.
3. Save the Emergency Contact Numbers
Always keep the 24-hour emergency phone number for your insurance provider saved in your phone. This is the number you call to:
- Report a medical emergency
- Request an ambulance
📞 You can find this number on your insurance card, welcome email, or policy documents.
4. What If You Need Urgent Care Before Seeing a Doctor?
If you can’t wait for a regular appointment and need immediate medical attention (but it’s not life-threatening), here’s what to do:
- Go to an affiliated private hospital or urgent care centre.
- Use your insurer’s search tool to find the closest one.
- Show your insurance card at reception.
Remember if you use clinics, doctors or hospitals who don’t have an agreement with your insurance company then you will have to pay the bill and the norm is the insurance company will not refund the cost.
5. Additional Support from My Insurance Spain
We’re here to help you get the most from any health policy you purchased through us. Visit our website for a full library of how-to videos and articles, available to everyone, including:
- How to find a doctor
- How to use your insurer’s online tools
- How to request documents or update your information
👉 Head to myinsurancespain.com to explore your resources.
Final Tip: Be Proactive
Settling into a new country is exciting, but sometimes unpredictable. A little preparation now can save you a lot of stress later. Take a moment to:
✔️ Find your doctor
✔️ Learn how to book appointments
✔️ Save emergency contact numbers
✔️ Know where to go for urgent care
If you’re ever unsure about what to do, don’t hesitate to contact the broker you purchased your policy from—they’re there to help.
