San Sebastian has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the National Health System (SNS) and is used by both Spanish citizens and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in San Sebastian for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in San Sebastian are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Spain. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery due to shorter wait times and more personalized care. Private hospitals in San Sebastian are modern and offer a wide range of services.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in San Sebastian
- Hospital Donostia: This is a public hospital located in the center of San Sebastian. It is well-equipped and specializes in emergency care, surgery, and oncology.
- Clinica San Sebastian: This is a private hospital located in the center of San Sebastian. It is well-equipped and specializes in emergency care, surgery, and oncology.
- Hospital de Basurto: This is a public hospital located in Bilbao, which is about an hour away from San Sebastian by car. It is well-equipped and specializes in emergency care, surgery, and oncology.
Emergency Services in San Sebastian
San Sebastian has ambulance services that can be called by dialing 112. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the situation.
Health Insurance Companies in San Sebastian
The most popular private health insurers in San Sebastian are Sanitas, Adeslas, and DKV Seguros. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in San Sebastian: Health Care
“I’ve been living in San Sebastian for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make some sacrifices in terms of the neighborhood you choose to live in and the size of your apartment.The most expensive neighborhoods in San Sebastian are the city center, Gros, and the beach areas like La Concha and Ondarreta. These areas are beautiful and have a lot of great restaurants, shops, and attractions, but the cost of living is quite high. If you want to live in one of these areas, you might have to settle for a smaller apartment or share a flat with roommates to make it work on your budget.On the other hand, there are more affordable neighborhoods like Amara, Egia, and Intxaurrondo, where you can find larger apartments for a more reasonable price. These areas are still well-connected to the city center by public transportation, so you won’t feel too isolated. Plus, they have their own local shops, bars, and restaurants, so you’ll still have plenty of options for entertainment and dining.In terms of other expenses, groceries and utilities are generally affordable in San Sebastian, especially if you shop at local markets and avoid imported products. Eating out can be pricey, especially in the touristy areas, but there are plenty of affordable pintxo bars and cafes where you can enjoy a meal without breaking the bank.One sacrifice you might have to make is owning a car, as parking can be difficult and expensive in the city. However, San Sebastian has a great public transportation system, and it’s also a very walkable and bike-friendly city, so you might find that you don’t miss having a car too much.Overall, I think it’s definitely possible to live comfortably in San Sebastian on $5,000 a month, as long as you’re willing to be flexible about your living situation and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. It’s a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy your time here,” commented an expat living in San Sebastian.
