Cost of Staying in a Hospital: Is It Free or Not?

If you get admitted to a public hospital in Spain, you won’t be charged directly for your stay. Sounds great, right? But it’s not that simple. The public healthcare system generally covers hospital stays, treatments, and most medical services. However, while it feels free, there are still some details to keep in mind.

1. Is It Really Free?

Yes, if you’re a resident or citizen contributing to Spain’s Social Security, hospital admissions are free at public facilities. You won’t see any direct charges for your hospital stay, and treatments like surgeries or emergency care are covered. But although you won’t pay out-of-pocket during your stay, these services are funded through the taxes and contributions everyone pays into the system.

2. Additional Costs: Copayments and Services Not Covered

While hospital admissions are free, there are a few cases where you might face extra charges:

  • Medications: If you’re prescribed certain medications for aftercare, you might pay a portion of the cost, depending on your income.
  • Non-essential services: Things like dental care, eyeglasses, and some specialized treatments aren’t fully covered.
  • Foreign residents: If you’re not eligible for public healthcare and don’t have private insurance, you might be charged for some services.

3. If You Have Private Insurance

Many residents and expats opt for private health insurance to avoid long wait times and to access private hospitals. If you use private healthcare, then your insurance will typically cover hospital costs depending on your policy. However, it’s wise to check your insurance plan carefully, as some policies have copays or exclusions.

Tip: Always check with your insurance about coverage details if you’re going private. Some services might not be included, and you could end up with unexpected charges.

4. What If You’re a Tourist?

Emergency care is provided to tourists, but depending on your status and coverage, you might receive a bill later. If you’re just visiting, it’s smart to have travel insurance to cover unexpected medical costs.