Tourists passing through Valencia shouldn’t be too focused on their stay. They need to take into account certain parameters that are often forgotten, but which can be important. This is particularly the case when they need to call on the local health system. What’s the most important information you need to know? Find out in this article!
How does the Valencian public healthcare system work?
Almost 90% of Valencians use the public medical care service. Each resident is assigned a health care center, depending on the location of their home. In addition, each center has several doctors, as well as a laboratory and an emergency consultation service. This configuration means that patients don’t have to travel to multiple locations.
Otherwise, each patient receives a assigned doctor, and all consultations take place within the center in question. Similarly, for all necessary procedures, it is essential to go through one’s referring doctor. This is the case, for example, when a patient wishes to consult a specialist. However, it is also possible to request a change of doctor.
It should also be noted that consultations and care are entirely free at these centers. Only dental and ophthalmological care is subject to a charge. In this particular case, it may be worthwhile to subscribe to a complementary private insurance.
Moreover, hospitalization requires a doctor’s prescription, except when it’s an emergency. Once again, the prise en charge is totally free, as this is a public establishment. The only real disadvantage of the Valencian public care system is the rather long wait.
What about the local private healthcare system?
In Valencia, the private healthcare system is most often used as a complementary option to the public system. In practice, by subscribing to such private insurance, the patient can be directed to various partner structures. These range from clinics, through specialists, to hospitals.
By using the private system, it is possible to benefit from a quicker service. What’s more, the patient is covered for dental and ophthalmological care. Anyone staying in the country has the right to enjoy this healthcare system. For European citizens, the public system is open to them, under certain conditions.
For tourists and students in particular, the latter can make use of the local public healthcare service via the Carte Européenne d’Assurance Maladie (CEAM). However, they must obtain it before arriving in the country. It is advisable to apply for one at least 15 days before departure.
If not, however, it is possible to apply for a provisional certificate valid for 3 months. The EHIC, on the other hand, is valid for 2 years. To obtain it, you can apply online, by telephone or direct to your local Assurance Maladie office. Finally, this card is both nominative and individual.