Buying private health insurance in Spain is an important step for anyone moving to the country, whether you’re relocating permanently, applying for a visa, or spending extended time here. However, many people assume that once the policy is active, everything will work automatically. In reality, knowing how to use health insurance in Spain is just as important as buying the policy itself.
This is exactly why we created our latest video: “Health Insurance in Spain: What to Do After You Buy It.” The video is aimed specifically at US and British nationals who already have private health insurance in Spain but are unsure how to use it correctly in day-to-day situations.
In the video, we explain the practical steps you should take immediately after purchasing your policy. This includes how to organise your nearest GP and clinics, how Spanish private health insurance networks work, and why it’s essential to always use doctors and hospitals that have agreements with your insurer. Some people are surprised to learn that most private health insurance policies purchased in Spain do not include reimbursement, meaning using the wrong clinic can result in significant out-of-pocket costs.
We also cover what happens if your GP refers you for further treatment, how authorisations work, what to do in a medical emergency, and how annual renewals are handled. These are areas that often cause confusion, especially for people who are new to Spain.
The key message is simple: spending a little time getting organised now can prevent stress, delays, and unexpected bills later — particularly when you’re ill and not feeling your best.
If you’ve recently bought health insurance in Spain, this video will help you use it with confidence and avoid common mistakes.