Is Healthcare Free In Lanzarote?

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Healthcare In Lanzarote, Spain

Healthcare in Spain is considered among the best across Europe and the rest of the globe.

Medical services in the country often receive praise for their quality and results. And the good news is the same can be said of Lanzarote’s healthcare.

Residents, expats, and tourists are entitled to such an amazing healthcare system.

But perhaps the biggest question in your mind is this — is it free? And to what extent?

I’ll be sharing with you the answers in this article.

Please note that this post might contain affiliate links, I will earn a small percentage should you choose to purchase something, but it will be at no cost to you. You can read the disclosure policy.

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Does Lanzarote Have Free Healthcare?

Yes, the healthcare in Lanzarote is widely free BUT still, there are a few points to consider.

Fortunately, the UK has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Spain.

So even after Brexit, a UK national can still receive state healthcare services and emergency treatments for free or at a fairly cheaper cost in Spain (the Canary Islands included).

As long as you present a valid UK GHIC (UK Global Healthcare Insurance Card) or existing EHIC (European Healthcare Insurance Card) to any public health centers and hospitals, you’ll get state medical services at no charge.

You’re entitled to the same state-provided medical services and treatments that Spanish nationals are also granted.

Healthcare Services That Are NOT FREE in Lanzarote

While most healthcare services are at little or no cost to you at all, a few particular medical treatments require regular payment.

Especially if you’ll opt for private hospitals and are planning to undergo major treatments, you’re likely to pay in full.

You might also be asked to pay for the following:

Dental Care
Cosmetic procedures
Medical repatriation
Other prescriptions
Treatments that healthcare providers would not deem necessary or urgent upon your stay

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How To Be Entitled To Free / Reduced-Cost Medical Healthcare

Having either card (UK GHIC or EHIC) is a MUST so you don’t have to pay for most healthcare services.

It’s advisable that you get a UK GHIC since it may become valid and handier in more countries in the future.

But you’re also free to use your existing EHIC until its expiry date.

These cards will cover the following:

Treatment for pre-existing or chronic medical conditions
Routine maternity care
Emergency treatment and visits to A&E
Oxygen therapy
Kidney dialysis

If you lost your card or it got stolen abroad and needed treatment, you’ll have to apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC).

You may contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services from Monday-Friday at +44 (0)191 218 1999.

Moreover, please be reminded that these cards might significantly help you lessen and even eliminate medical costs.

BUT they are not alternatives to travel insurance. So, it’s always better to get a hold of both.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lanzarote’s Healthcare

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Do Expats Get Free Healthcare In Spain?

Yes, expats get free state healthcare in Spain as long as they meet the following criteria:

Staying temporarily in Spain and with an EHIC card
Living in Spain and receiving particular state benefits
Resident in Spain and is recently divorced OR separated from a partner registered with social security
Child resident in Spain
State pensioner
Employed/Self-employed resident of Spain and pay social security contributions
Age below 26 and studying in Spain
A pregnant woman who is a resident in Spain

Does Lanzarote Have A Hospital?

Yes, Lanzarote has a multitude of medical centers.

You’ll find the main public hospital in Arrecife, Lanzarote’s capital city.

And a private one called Hospiten Lanzarote is located in Puerto del Carmen, one of the main resorts on the island.

Are Hospitals Good In Lanzarote?

Yes, Lanzarote’s hospitals are good.

The island’s hospitals, especially the private ones, are full of well-trained medical staff with access to technologically advanced equipment.

How Do I See A Doctor In Lanzarote?

Call 112 (operators speak English) in an emergency to request medical assistance.

Also, most medical centers have an A&E service and are available 12 hours a day.

Some are open 24/7. You can immediately visit one if you need to see a doctor and be treated.

Can You Get Antibiotics Over The Counter In Lanzarote?

No, you cannot get antibiotics over the counter in Lanzarote.

By Spain’s law, you can only get antibiotics from pharmacists if you have a doctor’s prescription.

Is EHIC Valid In Lanzarote?

Yes, an existing EHIC is valid in Lanzarote (Spain) as long as it’s not past its expiry date.

Final Thoughts

You’d never know when accidents or unfortunate medical emergencies may occur.

So don’t forget to bring your GHIC or EHIC cards and other important documents wherever you go.

And lastly, be sure to take out proper travel insurance for your needs.

I hope this article answered your questions about Lanzarote’s healthcare system.

Don’t forget to share this with friends and Pin it if you find it helpful and as always

Safe travels!