Cross-border Healthcare: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to get reimbursed for medical expenses incurred while seeking specialized healthcare treatment in other EU countries.
This scheme allows residents to access specialized medical care in other European Union countries and receive money back for the costs. It is a way to ensure that being in a different EU country does not prevent you from receiving necessary specialized care.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically for residents who are seeking specialized medical treatment in other EU countries. If you are a resident and need to travel to another member state within the European Union to receive specialized care that is not available or accessible in the same way at home, you may qualify for this assistance.
What you get
The primary benefit is a reimbursement for medical expenses incurred while you are receiving healthcare abroad. This helps cover the costs of the specialized medical care you received in another EU country, providing a way to manage the financial impact of seeking treatment outside your home country.
What it costs you
While the scheme is designed to help with costs, there are administrative requirements to consider. You may be required to obtain prior authorization from the relevant authorities before undergoing certain specific types of treatments. It is important to check these requirements beforehand to ensure your treatment is covered.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that the reimbursement is not a direct refund of every Euro you spent at a foreign clinic. Instead, the reimbursement is limited to the rates that are applicable in Spain. If the cost of treatment in another EU country is higher than what the local system would typically cover, you will be responsible for the difference.
How to apply
- Determine if your specific medical treatment requires you to obtain prior authorization before you travel.
- Seek the necessary medical care in the chosen EU country.
- Collect and keep all original invoices and relevant medical documentation related to your treatment.
- Submit your claim for the reimbursement of expenses through the official channels provided by the health authorities.