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SIP Health Card - Healthcare Card for Spain - Costa Blanca - Application at Centro de Salud with appointment booking and personal English-speaking assistance on-site

In Spain, the SIP Health Card (also known as the health card) must be applied for at the Centro de Salud (Healthcare Center). It is common knowledge that in most healthcare centers (Centro de Salud), there are often no English-speaking staff, which can sometimes make communication difficult for foreigners. Therefore, we offer you a personal assistance service through one of our staff members who speaks both English and Spanish. This staff member will accompany you to the appointment at the healthcare center and assist you on-site with the application for your health card (SIP card). Our goal is to ensure that you feel well understood during the appointment and that all necessary steps proceed smoothly. Furthermore, we take care of the appointment booking for you. We research and find the appropriate healthcare center for your place of residence and schedule a suitable appointment, if possible at the respective Centro de Salud. This saves you time and effort in searching for the appointment. Prior to the appointment, we also clarify with you in advance which documents you need to bring. This way, you can be sure to have everything necessary with you, and the application process will proceed without delays. Simply select your preferred location in the following form and follow the further steps.
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What you can expect
Overview of our service

Our service is designed to make access to healthcare in Spain as easy as possible for you. We are here to ensure that your needs are understood and that you receive the best possible support.

We understand that applying for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP card) for foreigners can sometimes be a challenge, especially when there is a language barrier. That’s why we are here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible for you.

Our assistance at a glance:

Finding out which Centro de Salud is responsible for you
If appointments can be reserved in advance, we will do that for you
An English-speaking employee will accompany you
The employee will communicate for you at the Centro de Salud
We will clarify with you which documents are necessary for the appointment
We are always available for any further questions you may have
Our service offers you a personal accompaniment by one of our experienced employees who speaks both English and Spanish. This employee will accompany you to the appointment at the local health center (Centro de Salud) and assist you on-site with the application for your SIP card. With our assistance, you don't have to worry about misunderstandings or not understanding important information.

We also take care of the organization of the appointment for you. We research which Centro de Salud is responsible for your place of residence and arrange a suitable appointment for you. This saves you valuable time and effort by not having to search for the relevant facilities yourself. Before the appointment, we clarify all required documents with you in advance. We provide you with a clear list of the documents you need to bring to ensure a smooth application process. This way, you can ensure that you have everything necessary and there are no delays.
Here is an overview of the process

1

Selecting service in the booking form

Please choose the desired service in the above-mentioned booking form and, if possible, enter your preferred date for the booking. Once you have completed the booking, we will process it and send you further information via email or Whatsapp.

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2

Preparing Documents

For certain appointments, it is necessary to bring along documents, such as filled-out forms and additional paperwork. No worries, we are happy to take care of these tasks for you. Additionally, we will inform you precisely about any other documents or materials needed, so nothing is forgotten. You will receive a comprehensive checklist from us for this purpose.

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3

Scheduling / Attending the Appointment

For the desired service, we strive to arrange an appointment in advance with the relevant authority or entity. If it is not possible to schedule an appointment in advance, you will meet directly with one of our staff members, who speaks English, at the relevant location. This is also the case if no advance appointment can be made. All the details regarding this will be communicated to you via email or Whatsapp.

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How to apply for or obtain the Individual Health Card (SIP) in Spain if you live as a foreigner on the Costa Blanca?

If you live as a foreigner in Spain, you can apply for the Individual Health Card (SIP) to access the public health system in Spain. The SIP is the individual health card that allows you to use medical services in public health institutions. Here are the steps to apply for the SIP in Spain:

Registration: The first step is to register at the local Town Hall or Empadronamiento Office. Here, you will receive a Certificate of Registration that confirms your residence in Spain.

To apply for the Certificate of Registration in Spain, the following documents are usually required:

National Identity Document: A valid identification document that confirms your identity.
Rental agreement or proof of ownership: A proof of your residential address in Spain.
Registration Form: This form is usually obtained at the local Empadronamiento Office or online through your Town Hall’s website.
Proof of residence: If you are a tenant, you may need a confirmation from the landlord about your stay. If you are a property owner, you may need to present the proof of ownership. Additional documents if necessary: Depending on the city or region, additional documents may be required. Therefore, it is advisable to check the specific requirements of the local Empadronamiento Office in advance.

It is important to note that the exact requirements for applying for the Certificate of Registration may vary depending on the city and region in Spain. Therefore, it is advisable to contact the local Empadronamiento Office or visit their website to obtain information about the documents and procedures specific to your place of residence. With our service, you can also book German-speaking assistance for the appointment at the Town Hall, and we organize everything for you!

Health Center: After registering at the Town Hall, you must visit the local Health Center (Centro de Salud). There, you will need to submit an application to obtain the Individual Health Card (SIP). The required documents vary depending on the region, but you will generally need your passport or identity document and your Certificate of Registration. You may also need to fill out the EX18 form, specifically designed for the application of the SIP for foreigners.

Application and registration: At the Health Center, you will need to complete the application and provide your personal information. You will then be registered in the system of the Spanish health service, and you will be assigned a SIP card.

Reception of the SIP card: After submitting the application, you will usually receive your Individual Health Card – SIP by postal mail at your registered address. The processing time for the application may vary depending on the region, but it usually does not take long.

It is important to note that the SIP card is generally valid for the duration of your stay in Spain. If you move out of the country, you will need to deregister at your local health center and return the SIP card.

Please note that the exact requirements and procedures for applying for the SIP card may vary depending on the region in Spain. It is recommended to contact directly the local health center or the relevant authorities to obtain updated and specific information for your region.

What is a "Centro de Salud" and how is it organized?
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A “Centro de Salud” is a health center or healthcare facility in Spain that provides primary health services. These centers play a crucial role in the healthcare of the population and serve as the first point of contact for medical care and advice.

The organization of a “Centro de Salud” is based on the principle of primary care and involves various medical professionals working together to provide comprehensive health services. The facilities are usually managed by the respective autonomous community or region in Spain and offer a wide range of medical services to the local population.

The following aspects are typical of the organization of a “Centro de Salud” in Spain:

General Practitioner’s Office: Each “Centro de Salud” has a general practitioner’s office where general practitioners (médicos de familia) work. The general practitioners are the primary medical contact for patients and take care of general medical services, routine check-ups, and diagnoses.

Nurses and Nursing Staff: In addition to general practitioners, nurses (enfermeras) and other medical nursing staff also work in the health centers. They administer vaccinations, conduct medical tests and treatments, and support general practitioners in patient care.

Specialists: Some “Centros de Salud” also have specialized doctors (especialistas) who are experts in specific medical fields, such as gynecology, pediatrics, or dermatology.

Administration and Appointments: The health centers also have administrative staff responsible for scheduling appointments, patient registration, and other administrative tasks.

Emergency Care: Some “Centros de Salud” also offer limited emergency care during their opening hours. In urgent medical cases, however, patients are usually referred to hospitals or specialized emergency centers.

The health centers are usually distributed across different neighborhoods or communities to ensure optimal accessibility for the population. Patients can visit the health center closest to their place of residence and receive medical care there.

The organizational structure and the services offered may vary depending on the region in Spain, as healthcare systems are organized differently in each autonomous community. Overall, however, “Centros de Salud” play a central role in providing basic healthcare and health services to the population in Spain.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions related to the application for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP Card)

Which health services are covered with the SIP Card - Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual?

The SIP Card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual) covers various health services in Spain. The SIP Card allows access to public health care and grants insured individuals a variety of medical services. The exact services may vary slightly depending on the region and Autonomous Community in Spain, but generally include the following:

General Medical Care: The SIP Card allows access to a general practitioner (médico de cabecera) or a family doctor in a Centro de Salud (Health Center). Here, insured individuals receive medical advice, diagnoses, treatments, and prescriptions for prescribed medications.

Specialized Medical Care: The SIP Card also allows access to specialists (especialistas) in hospitals or specialized health centers. This includes specialties such as gynecology, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology, and many others.

Diagnostic Tests: With the SIP Card, insured individuals are entitled to various diagnostic tests such as laboratory tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI or CT scans to support medical diagnoses.

Medication Supply: The SIP Card allows access to prescription medications at a discounted price. The costs of medications may vary depending on the medication and the prescription.

Emergency Care: The SIP Card also covers emergency care in public hospitals and emergency centers. In emergencies, insured individuals can receive medical assistance and treatment without having to schedule an appointment beforehand.

Hospital Stays: In cases of medical necessity and upon referral by a specialist, the SIP Card can also cover hospital stays, including surgeries and inpatient treatment.

It is important to note that the services of the SIP Card are generally limited to public health care. In some cases, it may be necessary to take out additional insurance to access certain specialized services or private health facilities.

Eligibility for the SIP Card depends on the social security system in Spain. Typically, Spanish citizens and legal foreign residents in Spain are entitled to a SIP Card if they are affiliated with the Spanish health system. It is essential to always carry the SIP Card during medical appointments and treatments to ensure smooth access to health care.

Can I simply choose a doctor with the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual?

With the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP Card) in Spain, you usually have the option to choose a general practitioner (médico de cabecera). The assigned general practitioner is typically the first point of contact for your medical needs. If you require medical assistance, you can schedule an appointment with your assigned general practitioner at the corresponding Centro de Salud (Health Center).

The choice of the general practitioner depends on your place of residence, and usually, you will be assigned a doctor near your residence. However, if you have specific medical needs or preferences, in some cases, you can request another general practitioner at a different Centro de Salud. This change is usually possible but requires a corresponding request to the competent health authority or insurance office.

For specialized medical treatments that require a referral, you typically need to ask your general practitioner for a referral to a specialist (especialista). The SIP Card will then allow you to access a specialist in the specific medical field.

It is important to note that the choice of general practitioners and specialists is generally limited to the public health system. If you wish to access specific private doctors or specialists, this may require additional insurance or private health plans.

Overall, the SIP Card offers a good way to access public health care in Spain, allowing you to receive medical assistance and treatment from assigned doctors in health centers or hospitals.

In which locations along the Costa Blanca do you offer this service in English?

You can book our service in the following cities:

Denia, Jávea, Benitachell, Altea, Pedreguer, Teulada, Moraira, Benissa, Calpe, Alfaz del Pi, Benidorm, Finestrat, Villajoyosa, Campello, Alicante, Elche, Santa Pola, Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, Gandia, Oliva, Orihuela, Costa y Pilar de la Horadada, Xeraco, Xeresa, Valencia, Cullera, Pedreguer, Benidoleig, Orba, Alcalalí, Gata de Gorgos, Pego, Monte Pego, Xaló, Les Bassetes, Altea la Vella, Polop, La Nucia, Callosa d`en Sarrià, Castel de Castells, Mutxamel, El Campelo, Sant Joan d`Alacant, Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Santa Pola, Arenals del Sol

Most of these places have their own Centro de Salud. If this is not the case at your location, we will find the nearest and appropriate health center for you.

What costs are associated with the application for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual?

There are no additional fees or costs for applying for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP card) at the Centro de salud (Health Center). The health card application is a free service available to all residents of Spain, including foreign nationals with a valid residence permit.

However, we offer a special accompanying service to assist you with the health card application. This service includes the assistance of one of our staff members who speaks your language and will be by your side at the Centro de salud. Our staff member will help you smoothly navigate the application process and ensure that all necessary documents are correctly filled out and submitted.

For this accompanying service, we charge a separate fee, which will be displayed in the booking form once you have selected your location and the corresponding service staff member. The fee for our accompanying service varies depending on the location and the type of support you require. Please note that prices are inclusive of 21% VAT (Value Added Tax), so you can clearly see the costs for our accompanying service. If you have any further questions about the prices or the booking process, we are happy to assist you.

We understand that dealing with the Spanish health system and language barriers can be challenging for many foreign residents in Spain. Our accompanying service aims to help you overcome these hurdles and provide you with a smooth and stress-free experience when applying for your health card.

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible service and help you access healthcare services in Spain. If you wish to use our accompanying service, you can easily select it in the booking form, and the corresponding fee will be displayed transparently. We are here to assist you with any questions or concerns and look forward to helping you with the application for your Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual.

Can I also take out private health insurance as an addition to the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual?

Yes, it is indeed possible to take out private health insurance in addition to the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP card). In Spain, you have the option to privately insure yourself to receive extended medical care and additional services beyond the public health system.

Private health insurance can offer various advantages, including:

Access to specialized doctors and specialists: With private health insurance, you often have access to a broader selection of doctors and specialists who may offer shorter waiting times and more specialized medical care.

Comfort and flexibility: Private insurances can provide you with more flexibility in scheduling appointments and treatment options. You can schedule appointments at private clinics or hospitals and may have access to additional services such as room upgrades or private rooms in the hospital.

Additional services: Private health insurances often offer additional services such as dental care, alternative medicine, vision aids, and medication coverage that may not be fully covered by the public health system.

It is important to note that the costs and benefits of private health insurance can vary depending on the insurance provider and the chosen insurance plan. Before deciding on private health insurance, it is advisable to compare different options and carefully review the terms and extent of coverage.

In Spain, it is common for many people to have both public healthcare through the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual and private health insurance to take advantage of the benefits of both systems and receive more comprehensive medical care.

Can I directly go to a hospital with the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual?

Yes, with the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP card), you also have access to public hospitals in Spain. The SIP card allows you to access healthcare services in the public health system, including emergency care and hospitalization.

If you require medical care and have an acute emergency, you can directly go to a public hospital to receive the necessary treatment. In emergencies, you will usually be treated immediately, regardless of whether you are a Spanish citizen or a foreign resident with a valid SIP card.

For non-urgent medical matters or scheduled medical procedures, you should generally first visit your general practitioner or family doctor (Médico de Familia), who can refer you to a specialist if needed. Your general practitioner is your first point of contact for medical questions and will refer you to specialized medical care at the hospital when necessary.

It is important to note that the public health system in Spain is well-developed, and most medical needs can be covered through the public health system. In emergencies or serious medical issues, it is recommended to go directly to a public hospital to receive the best possible care.

What happens to the Tarjeta de Salud (Health Card) after I submit the application at the Centro de Salud (Health Center)?

After you have submitted the application for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP Card) at the Centro de Salud, your request will be processed and reviewed. If everything is in order and your application is approved, you will usually receive the health card by mail at the address you provided.

The delivery of the Tarjeta de Salud typically goes to the registered address you indicated when applying for the card. It may take a few weeks for the card to be printed and sent, so you may need to exercise some patience. However, in some regions or health centers, you may also receive the health card directly on-site after your application has been processed. Sometimes, you may also be handed a provisional Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP Card) in paper form, which allows you to attend medical appointments.

It is important to ensure that you have provided the correct address to ensure smooth delivery. If there are any changes to your address, please inform the Centro de Salud or the relevant authorities promptly so that the card can be sent to the correct address.

The Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual is an important document that grants you access to healthcare services in the Spanish health system. With this card, you can receive medical services in public health centers and hospitals without having to pay directly for the treatment.

Once you have received the card, it is advisable to keep it safe and present it at each doctor’s visit or health service. The Tarjeta de Salud is usually valid for the long term, as long as you continue to live in Spain and hold a valid residence permit.

Our accompanying service not only assists you in applying for the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual but also addresses any questions related to the health card and the Spanish health system. We are at your disposal to make the process easier for you and to assist you in using your Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual.

How long is the Tarjeta Sanitaria valid?

The validity period of the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (SIP card) varies depending on the regulations of each region in Spain, as the healthcare system in Spain is decentralized, and each region has its own rules. Generally, the card is valid for the long term as long as you continue to live in Spain and have a valid residency permit.

In most cases, the Tarjeta Sanitaria retains its validity for several years, and you do not need to renew the card every year. It usually remains valid as long as your residency permit or residency status in Spain is active.

However, it is important to ensure that your personal data and information on the card are up to date. If there are any changes in your address or residency permit, you should inform the Centro de Salud or the relevant authorities as soon as possible to keep your Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual updated and valid.

It is advisable to keep an eye on the validity period of your Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual and take necessary steps to update or renew the card if your personal circumstances change.

Please note that the specific provisions regarding the validity of the Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual may vary depending on the region and health authority in Spain. Therefore, it is recommended to contact the local Centro de Salud or the relevant healthcare services directly if you have any questions about the validity of your card.

If you have any further questions about our service, please don't hesitate to contact our support team!

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