How the Public Healthcare works in Spain

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Spain's public healthcare system, known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), is a publicly funded, universal, and largely free-at-the-point-of-delivery system. It's funded by general taxation and offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, hospital treatment, and emergency care. Access is primarily based on social security contributions, with those working legally in Spain (employees or self-employed) generally eligible.
Key Features of the Spanish Public Healthcare System:
Universal Coverage:
Spain's SNS aims to provide healthcare to all residents, regardless of their income or social status.
Free at the Point of Delivery:
Many services, including doctor visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care, are free to use for residents. However, certain services, like pharmaceutical prescriptions, may have co-payments.
Decentralized Structure:
The SNS is managed by the national Ministry of Health, but the Autonomous Regions have a significant role in planning and organizing healthcare services.
Focus on Quality and Efficiency:
The Spanish healthcare system is highly regarded for its quality and efficiency, with high life expectancy and low rates of avoidable hospitalizations and mortality.
Access Through Social Security:
Access to the SNS is primarily based on social security contributions, which are deducted from salaries for employees and must be paid by self-employed individuals.
Comprehensive Service Offer:
The SNS covers a wide range of services, including general practitioner visits, specialist consultations, hospital treatment, emergency care, and subsidized medications.
Registration and Health Card:
After registering with the social security, individuals receive a health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual or TSI) that allows access to public healthcare services.
EU Citizens:
EU citizens residing in Spain may have different access rights based on their specific circumstances.
In essence, Spain's public healthcare system provides comprehensive and accessible healthcare to its residents, primarily funded by taxes and managed through a decentralized system with a strong focus on quality and efficiency.