Healthcare in Costa Blanca: A Complete Guide for Expats and Residents
The Costa Blanca region is not only famous for its 340 days of sunshine and Mediterranean lifestyle but also for its high-quality healthcare system. Both public and private healthcare in Spain consistently rank among the best in Europe, and Costa Blanca is no exception.
From modern hospitals in Alicante and Benidorm to international clinics in Jávea, Denia, Altea and Torrevieja, residents and expats have access to a wide range of medical services.
Public Healthcare in Costa Blanca
Spain operates a universal healthcare system (SNS – Sistema Nacional de Salud), which provides free or low-cost care to residents.
Who can access it?
Residents who contribute to social security through work or self-employment.
Retirees receiving a state pension (including those from the UK with S1 forms).
Dependent family members of residents.
Services included: GP visits, emergency care, hospital treatments, maternity care, and prescriptions (with co-payment).
Strength: High-quality facilities and well-trained staff.
Consideration: Some waiting times for non-urgent specialist care.
Private Healthcare in Costa Blanca
Many expats choose private healthcare either as their main option or to complement the public system. Benefits:
English-speaking doctors and staff.
Shorter waiting times.
Wider choice of hospitals and clinics.
Access to modern treatments and wellness programs.
Health insurance: Policies typically range from €50–€150 per month, depending on age, coverage, and provider.
Major Hospitals and Clinics in Costa Blanca
Alicante
Hospital General Universitario de Alicante – Leading public hospital with a full range of specialties.
Hospital Vithas Medimar Internacional – Private hospital with multilingual staff and advanced facilities.
Benidorm
Hospital Clinica Benidorm – Known for oncology, cardiology, and modern technology.
Hospital IMED Levante – Popular with expats, offering emergency, maternity, and outpatient services.
Torrevieja
Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja – Highly rated private hospital with international focus.
Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja – Public hospital with specialist units and modern equipment.
Jávea & Denia
Hospital Marina Salud (Denia) – Public hospital covering Denia, Jávea, and surrounding towns.
Clinica Glorieta (Denia) – Private clinic often used by English-speaking residents.
Altea & Calpe
Several private clinics with English, German, and Dutch-speaking doctors.
Easy access to larger hospitals in Benidorm and Denia.
Orihuela Costa
Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja serves this area.
Many local private practices cater to expats.
Pharmacies and Everyday Healthcare
Pharmacies (Farmacias) are easy to find across the Costa Blanca, marked by a green cross sign.
Open weekdays and Saturdays, with rotating 24-hour services.
Pharmacists often provide first-line advice for minor illnesses.
Prescription costs are partially subsidized under the public system.
Tips for Expats Navigating Healthcare in Costa Blanca
- Register for an NIE or TIE, as this is essential for accessing services.
- Apply for a SIP card, which is required to use the public healthcare system.
- Consider keeping private health insurance, even if you qualify for public care, since it usually speeds up treatment.
- Look for clinics with international staff, especially if your Spanish is limited.
- Always keep in mind the emergency number 112, which you can call for urgent medical situations.
Why Costa Blanca is Ideal for Healthy Living
Beyond hospitals and clinics, Costa Blanca itself promotes well-being:
Mild climate – Beneficial for those with arthritis, asthma, or joint conditions.
Active lifestyle – Hiking, cycling, golf, and water sports all year.
Mediterranean diet – Fresh seafood, olive oil, fruits, and vegetables.
WHO recognition – The World Health Organization considers parts of Costa Blanca among the healthiest places to live in the world.
Ready to Relocate? Let Us Guide You
Relocating to Costa Blanca means having peace of mind knowing world-class healthcare is available.