Health Care in Altea

Altea, a picturesque town on the Costa Blanca in Spain, offers a range of healthcare services for both residents and visitors. The healthcare system in Spain consists of both public and private sectors, providing high-quality medical care to those in need.

Spain's Healthcare System

Spain's public healthcare system, known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), provides free or low-cost healthcare to all residents, including European Union citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, can access the public healthcare system if they are registered residents and contribute to the social security system. Public hospitals in Altea are generally well-equipped and staffed with qualified professionals, but for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, some people may prefer private hospitals for shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Private hospitals in Altea offer a higher level of comfort and service, and many expats choose to use private healthcare facilities for their medical needs. It is recommended to have private health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare services.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Altea

Altea offers a selection of healthcare facilities for expats and visitors, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. Some recommended healthcare facilities in Altea are:

• Centro de Salud Altea - a public health center located in the town center.
• Clínica Benidorm - a private hospital specializing in various medical fields, located about 10 kilometers from Altea in the nearby city of Benidorm.
• IMED Levante - a private hospital offering a wide range of medical services, located about 12 kilometers from Altea in Benidorm.
• Hospital Marina Baixa - a public hospital located about 15 kilometers from Altea in the town of Villajoyosa.

In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats in Altea may need to travel to nearby cities such as Benidorm or Alicante for treatment.

Emergency Services in Altea

Altea has ambulance services available for emergencies. To call for an ambulance, dial 112, which is the general emergency number in Spain. Ambulance response times may vary depending on the location and traffic conditions, but they generally arrive promptly to attend to emergencies.

Health Insurance Companies in Altea

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Altea, such as Sanitas, DKV, and Mapfre. These companies offer various health insurance plans to suit different needs and budgets. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their needs. It is essential to have adequate health insurance coverage when living or traveling in Spain, especially if planning to use private healthcare services.