International heath card

I went into a clinic in Moaña (opp. Vigo) a couple of weeks ago to get a routine jab. Spotless waiting room with TV & free WiFi, only had to wait about 5-10 mins. Receptionist looked at my EHIC and said no problem and cost was only 2 Euro. I did have everything needed with me but don't think it would have been a lot more without my own kit.

We used their loos before leaving, spotless and cheaper than going to a Café on way back to the boat. No problems at all and clinic was only 200m from where we left the dinghy.

So cheap, good service and no hassle.
 
I received a bill for 228 euros three months after treatment (x-ray taken) in La Palma Gran Canaria, for which I thought my valid EHC had been accepted. So it seems there are exceptions.
 
RAI said:
I received a bill for 228 euros three months after treatment (x-ray taken) in La Palma Gran Canaria, for which I thought my valid EHC had been accepted. So it seems there are exceptions.
Click to expand...

There are three types of hospital in Spain.Private,state and private which Works for the state and a new one privately run state ......maybe you went to a private service or you where directed there .Many doctors working in the state service are partners in private clinics and hospitals that theey attend in the afternoons.Some doctors still get the two mixed up.
 
mogy said:
There are three types of hospital in Spain.Private,state and private which Works for the state and a new one privately run state ......maybe you went to a private service or you where directed there .Many doctors working in the state service are partners in private clinics and hospitals that theey attend in the afternoons.Some doctors still get the two mixed up.
Click to expand...
It was the university hospital, which is state run. I was sent there for the x-ray by a doctor who accepted my EHC and has not yet set a bill for his services.
I had first tried the nearest clinic to the marina, but they didn't accept the EHC and wanted cash in advance, as it was private. The BBC had an article about some Spanish hospitals not accepting the EHC cards of foreigners. With the advent of UKIPland, this should get better???
 
The thing about the EHIC is that it only entitles you to the same services that are provided to residents in the country. So, it could be that your Xray would have cost a local the same. You may well be able to claim the money back from the NHS if you are resident here.
 
A couple of months ago SWMBO was admitted to hospital on the Algarve. Four broken ribs.

Only one presentation of EHIC at the initial emergency hospital.

Six X-Rays, three scans, continuous iv painkillers and 12 days later she was released.

The other day we got the bill posted to our UK address. €4.

She phoned the hospital. They said it was a mistake and to forget all about it.

My only suggestion is that, if in this sort of situation, don't mention boats. You are 'on holiday'.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top