Telemedicine in Spain: Your Healthcare Safety Net as an Expat
Telemedicine in Spain: Your Healthcare Safety Net as an Expat
How to access quality healthcare remotely in Spain. Best telemedicine platforms, insurance options, and what to do in medical emergencies as a digital nomad.
Introduction
As a digital nomad in Spain, healthcare access is critical—but navigating a foreign healthcare system can be daunting. Telemedicine offers a practical solution, providing 24/7 access to medical care without language barriers or the need to navigate unfamiliar clinics.
This guide covers everything you need to know about telemedicine in Spain, from the best platforms to insurance options and emergency protocols.
Why Telemedicine Matters for Digital Nomads
Traditional healthcare poses unique challenges for nomads:
- Language barriers - Most Spanish doctors speak limited English
- Unfamiliar systems - Different procedures, paperwork, and protocols
- Availability - Finding doctors who accept your insurance can be difficult
- Mobility - You may need care while traveling between cities
Telemedicine solves these problems by providing English-speaking doctors available on-demand, regardless of your location in Spain.
Best Telemedicine Platforms in Spain
International Platforms
1. Allianz Care
- Specifically designed for expats
- Integrated with international insurance
- Mental health services included
- Cost: Covered by insurance or €50-80 out-of-pocket
Spain-Specific Platforms
1. Vesiacare
- Spanish platform with English support
- Network of verified Spanish doctors
- In-person appointments available
- Cost: €30-50 per consultation
Insurance Options
Travel Insurance with Telemedicine
Most comprehensive travel insurance includes telemedicine:
- SafetyWing - $45/month, unlimited telemedicine
- World Nomads - Telemedicine included in standard plan
- IMG Global - 24/7 virtual care access
Spanish Health Insurance
If you're on a digital nomad visa, you'll need Spanish-compliant insurance:
- Sanitas - Major Spanish insurer, telemedicine included
- Adeslas - Comprehensive coverage with virtual consultations
- Asisa - Budget-friendly with telemedicine access
💡 Pro Tip: Verify that your insurance covers telemedicine in Spain before purchasing. Some policies only cover in-person visits.
Common Medical Issues & Solutions
Minor Illnesses
- Cold, flu, infections - Telemedicine consultation + prescription
- Allergies - Virtual diagnosis and treatment plan
- Skin issues - Photo-based dermatology consultation
Chronic Conditions
- Prescription refills - Most platforms can handle ongoing medications
- Mental health - Psychiatry and therapy available virtually
- Follow-up care - Regular check-ins with the same doctor
When You Need In-Person Care
Telemedicine can't handle everything. Go to a clinic or hospital for:
- Severe pain or injuries
- Surgery requirements
- Lab tests or imaging (X-rays, MRI)
- Physical examinations
Emergency Protocols in Spain
Emergency Numbers
- 112 - Universal emergency number (ambulance, police, fire)
- 061 - Health emergencies
- 902 102 112 - English-speaking medical assistance
Finding Emergency Care
- Urgencias - Emergency room at any hospital
- Centro de Salud - Primary care centers (non-emergency)
- Farmacias - Pharmacies (green cross signs) can advise on minor issues
What to Bring
- Passport and insurance card
- List of medications
- Medical history (translated to Spanish if possible)
- Telemedicine records from recent consultations
Prescription Management
Getting Prescriptions via Telemedicine
- Consultation with doctor
- Prescription sent electronically
- Pick up at any Spanish pharmacy
Important Notes
- Some controlled substances require in-person Spanish doctor
- Bring existing prescriptions when traveling
- Spanish pharmacies don't accept foreign prescriptions—you'll need a Spanish doctor to reissue
Mental Health Services
Telemedicine is particularly valuable for mental health:
- Talkspace - Text and video therapy
- BetterHelp - Licensed therapists, flexible scheduling
- Cerebral - Psychiatric medication management
- Teladoc - Psychiatry available
Cost: €60-150 per session
💡 Pro Tip: For ongoing mental health needs, establish care with a Spanish psychiatrist using telemedicine, then transition to local in-person visits if staying long-term.
Cost Comparison
| Service Type | Telemedicine | In-Person (Private) | Public Healthcare |
|---|---|---|---|
| General consultation | €45-75 | €60-100 | Free (if insured) |
| Specialist | €75-150 | €100-200 | Free (long wait) |
| Prescription | €5-20 | €5-20 | €5-20 |
| Mental health | €60-150 | €80-200 | Free (limited) |
Setting Up Your Telemedicine System
Before Arriving in Spain:
- Research and choose a telemedicine platform
- Verify your insurance covers it
- Download apps and create accounts
- Upload medical history and documents
First Week in Spain:
- Do a test consultation to ensure everything works
- Save emergency numbers in your phone
- Locate the nearest hospital and pharmacy
- Register with Spanish health system if required
Ongoing:
- Keep telemedicine app updated
- Maintain digital copies of prescriptions
- Build relationship with one provider for continuity
Conclusion
Telemedicine is a game-changer for digital nomads in Spain. It removes language barriers, provides 24/7 access to care, and gives you peace of mind knowing medical help is always available.
Choose a platform that fits your needs, ensure your insurance covers telemedicine, and keep emergency numbers saved. With these systems in place, you can focus on enjoying Spain—knowing healthcare is just a video call away.
Resources
- Vesiacare
- Spanish Emergency Services: 112
