Medical care in Santiago and elsewhere

[JohnnieWalker]

Hola this question has just come up on Facebook. If you need medical care in Santiago or indeed in other larger cities on the Camino routes there are two choices.

You can go to the hospital clínico - the city hospital. They will treat you if you have a European health card or insurance, if no insurance they will need your passport and home address and they will send you a bill. You will have to wait - often for a long time. There is a bus to the entrance from the Plaza Galicia

The alternative is to go to the private clinic. In Santiago this is :

The Rosaleda Clínico
Rúa de Santiago León de Caracas, 1, 15701 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, A Coruña

This is 5 mins from the Plaza Galicia in the direction of the train station.

There is a charge of 60 euros for a consultation with a doctor. You will be seen almost immediately. They expect payment but will give you all you need for your insurers. If you contact your insurers before going they may very well recommend this private clinic.
Equivalents exist in many larger Spanish cities.

I hope that this helps.

John

 

[dougfitz]

@JohnnieWalker, thank you for this information. I know that my experience both in Spain and elsewhere in Europe is that even with travel insurance, the hospital will still send you the bill, and you will then have to claim from your insurer. That is if you don't arrange to pay the bill at the time of treatment.

If it is likely that you will need more expensive treatment than a standard consultation, I would suggest you contact your insurer before committing to any further treatment. They may well have in-country arrangements they will activate for more expensive medical care and any repatriation.

 

[movinmaggie]

As Doug wrote, I too had insurance documents which the copied but still sent a bill, as they did not accept payment at time of payment. I opted to pay by return mail and claim it on my taxes, rather than fill out 20 pages of the Insurance Claim. The cost was minimal and they were very helpful. I was glad I had enough Spanish to get through the visit.

 

[David]

Good post there Johnny, and helpful.

In Ponferrada the main hospital is just 100 metres or so off the Camino where the castle is. Turn left onto Calle Estafeta, take second left (T-Junction) onto Calle Buenavista, entrance is down there on the left. Hospital de la Reina. Is open 24/7.

When I took a sick hospitelaro there earlier this year they told me that they offer free minor care for pilgrims without asking for insurance or EU health card. Minor care being blisters, shin splints, aches and pains, etc but does not include real illnesses that need diagnoses such as x rays, etc.

 

[Mike Savage]

My experience with the hospital in Porto this year was that they will send you a bill or you can pay when you check out. They only accept cash if paying when you check out.

 

[filly]

My experience is that the small Centro de Salud which one sees often make no charge on presentation of the Credencial....

 

[David]

In Astorga, the pharmacy Farmacia Nunez, in the Plaza Espana, offers free foot care to pilgrims. It is difficult not to notice that the Pharmacist, as well as being cheerful, helpful, kind, and speaking some English, is rather beautiful.
(I do not mean beauty in an adolescent pin-up sense but in how she radiates positive life-affirming energy).

 

[travelgirl409]

I had to visit Hospital de la Reina in Ponferrada a few weeks ago. The receptionist apologized that treatment would be costly. I asked how much to consult with Doctor and she said 35 euros. I replied that, as an Anerican, I'd never see a doctor for so little cost! It was great; doctor from Haiti spoke English so I could explain issues. I received a steroid shot (cost 1 euro), an antihistamine shot ( another 1 euro). As I left, I paid 37 total euros and got well quickly!! I'd go back there anytime if need arose.

 

[Lyndale]

In August of 2013 my husband and I were passing thru Cirauqui looking up to admire the beautiful arches. Being on a cobblestone plaza, my husband failed to notice the transition from the plaza to the raised sidewalk. He stumbled and with the heavy backpack could not recover and fell hitting his forehead on the solid stone bench. Several pilgrims stopped to help us as he had a large, blood gushing gash on the forehead. The doctor's office was just a few feet away. He was rushed in, examined, prepped and given three stitches and all the bandages for the next ten days. After finding that my husband was going to be okay, it hit me that our Camino was over. This would have cost well over $1000 dollars in the US. When we asked how to pay, the response was "You are Pilgrims, there is no cost." This was very hard to believe but we were very grateful that we would be able to continue our journey. The doctor would not even take a donation. The service was excellent and no scar.

 

[t2andreo]

Another Santiago option, once you arrive at the Pilgrim Office, is the Centro de Salud located on the next block, about 100 meters down. It is on the left, in a modern blue-grey building. During July and August it was open until about 1300 each day.

I know we sent pilgrims there who needed ambulatory care. The more seriously ill pilgrims had the ambulance services called. Easy, peasy...

Health care at Santiago and most of the larger towns and cities along the Camino routes is generally good. Johnnie's comments about payment are well taken and prepared for.

Out of an over-abundance of caution, I usually buy trip insurance with my roundtrip airline ticket each year. Most major airlines provide policies that cover you while you are in the foreign location (e.g. Spain) for the duration of your ticketed stay. The single most important feature of these policies is that they usually include air evacuation, in the event of a serious injury or illness requiring immediate or speciality evacuation.

I hope this helps the dialog.

 

[donalomahony]

If you are buying travel / health insurance make sure it covers over 30 days away from home on one trip e.g. Walking from St Jean to Santiago. I discovered mine didn't but with a small charge I extended the number of days away.

 

[Alan Pearce]

Hola this question has just come up on Facebook. If you need medical care in Santiago or indeed in other larger cities on the Camino routes there are two choices.

You can go to the hospital clínico - the city hospital. They will treat you if you have a European health card or insurance, if no insurance they will need your passport and home address and they will send you a bill. You will have to wait - often for a long time. There is a bus to the entrance from the Plaza Galicia

The alternative is to go to the private clinic. In Santiago this is :

The Rosaleda Clínico
Rúa de Santiago León de Caracas, 1, 15701 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, A Coruña

This is 5 mins from the Plaza Galicia in the direction of the train station.

There is a charge of 60 euros for a consultation with a doctor. You will be seen almost immediately. They expect payment but will give you all you need for your insurers. If you contact your insurers before going they may very well recommend this private clinic.
Equivalents exist in many larger Spanish cities.

I hope that this helps.

John

Can I put in some words of praise for the private clinic mentioned by John in his post. I had reason to visit the clinic last year when my blood pressure took it upon itself to head south in a serious fashion. I was in the waiting room for 10 minutes and then on a bed in a ward with a drip in my arm shortly thereafter. I quickly had an ECG, and extensive blood tests. I was in the ward for, I think, 5 hours before my blood pressure increased enough for them to let me out. The care of the staff, from the wardsman who put the drip in, to the nurse who regularly took my blood pressure [and shook her head], to the staff who brought me some lunch and came back later to ask if I had enjoyed it, to the doctor who finally let me out and who waved her finger firmly in an emphatic "no!" when asked if I could walk 2 days later, was exemplary. My stay was made so much easier by the fact that Johns great mate and mine, Stephen, was there to interpret for me, and to wait patiently by my bed. He also helped to reassure the hospital that I was good for payment, as we had bypassed my passport and travel insurance documents in the hurry to get to the hospital.

I paid by debit card as I left, and it was 230 euro. Cheap! I took with me copies of my ECG and blood tests, and their good wishes.

Last year I decided to take travel insurance with a A$500 excess, so I could not claim any of the costs charged by the hospital. I no longer consider myself so bullet proof - this year it is a A$100 excess.

Alan

Be brave. Life is joyous.

 

[Alan Pearce]

If you are buying travel / health insurance make sure it covers over 30 days away from home on one trip e.g. Walking from St Jean to Santiago. I discovered mine didn't but with a small charge I extended the number of days away.

My travel insurance covers from the day I leave Australia until the day I land back in Sydney.

Alan

Be brave. Life is joyous.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hola this question has just come up on Facebook. If you need medical care in Santiago or indeed in other larger cities on the Camino routes there are two choices. Equivalents exist in many larger Spanish cities.I hope that this helps. John

Hola John - a sincere thank you for this post. Hopefully I will not need these services. As for professionalism of Spanish hospitals - I can report first hand how good it was. They even swapped doctors so that I had one who had some command of English - and more importantly understood what my foot problem meant - going forward or retiring from the Camino. On the subject of "paying the bill" - they handed me one as I left - it had BSB & Account details, however when I asked about paying cash - they directed me to the nearest ATM, & happily took my Euros.

I second the note about travel insurance - I always make it valid from departure day to arrival back home day. Cheers

 

[David]

I have noticed that some from abroad seem rather nervous about 'foreign' health care over in Europe, especially Spain for some reason, but the World Health Organisation has produced this list. In the UK we repeatedly tell everyone we have the best health care system in the world - well, apparently not, we are 18th!! Canada, 30th. America 31st, etc - whereas Spain is ranked 7th in the world, so if you do have to use the system be not afraid - the care is marvellous.


Ranking - Country - Per Capita Expenditure
1 France 4
2 Italy 11
3 San Marino 21
4 Andorra 23
5 Malta 37
6 Singapore 38
7 Spain 29
8 Oman 62
9 Austria 6
10 Japan 13
11 Norway 16
12 Portugal 27
13 Monaco 12
14 Greece 30
15 Finland 18
16 Luxembourg 5
17 Netherlands 9
18 United Kingdom 26
19 Ireland 25
20 Switzerland 2
21 Belgium 15
22 Colombia 49
23 Sweden 7
24 Cyprus 39
25 Germany 3
26 Saudi Arabia 63
27 United Arab Emirates 35
28 Israel 19
29 Morocco 99
30 Canada 10
31 United States 1
32 Australia 17
33 Chile 44
34 Denmark 8
35 Dominica 70
36 Costa Rica 50
37 Iceland 14
38 Slovenia 29
39 Cuba 118
40 Brunei 32
41 New Zealand 20

 

[Saint Mike II]

And we are 32 - but above New Zealand!!!

 

[Kanga]

I'd be interested in checking our the criteria used. There are quite a few countries that rank higher than Australia where I would not want to be hospitalised.

 

[dougfitz]

I'd be interested in checking our the criteria used. There are quite a few countries that rank higher than Australia where I would not want to be hospitalised.

You wouldn't be alone. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Health_Organization_ranking_of_health_systems_in_2000 for some comments on the criticisms leveled against the methodology used by the 2000 WHO World Health Report on which @David's list seems to be based.

 

[David]

I'd be interested in checking our the criteria used. There are quite a few countries that rank higher than Australia where I would not want to be hospitalised.

Please note that it isn't "David's list"! It is the World Health Organisation who made the list.
The reason I posted it was to show that Spain has an excellent health care system.

Methodology
The rankings are based on an index of five factors:

• Health (50%) : disability-adjusted life expectancy
  • Overall or average : 15%
  • Distribution or equality : 35%
• Responsiveness (25%) : speed of service, protection of privacy, and quality of amenities
  • Overall or average : 12.5%
  • Distribution or equality : 12.5%
• Fair financial contribution : 25%

Criticisms:
Concerns raised over the five factors considered, data sets used and comparison methodologies have led health bodies and political commentators in most of the countries on the list to question the efficacy of its results and validity of any conclusions drawn. Such criticisms of a broad endeavour by the WHO to rank all the world's healthcare systems must also however be understood in the context of a predisposition to analytical bias commensurate with an individual nation's demographics, socio-economics and politics. In considering such a disparate global spectrum, ranking criteria, methodology, results and conclusions will always be an area for contention.

 

[Kanga]

I think I like the Commonwealth Fund ranking.

 

[David]

That puts the UK at number one!! I'll go for that!!

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

So rankings are based 15% on the actual average health, 12.5% on timely delivery of health care and 72.5% on social factors. I prefer to judge quality on actual outcome of care, and how quickly it is available when I need it.
That said, from our anecdotal evidence here, care is good to excellent, reasonably priced, and quickly obtained. As a medical professional I was very satisfied with the help I received in Spain. I can understand for those without medical training or limited Spanish it can seem a little scary but I hope if we are all adventurous enough to walk the Camino we can manage a visit to a clinic or ER. And it makes for a great blog entry once it's all over.

Edit for math...hard to believe that was one of my majors

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

That said, from our anecdotal evidence here, care is good to excellent, reasonably priced, and quickly obtained. As a medical professional I was very satisfied with the help I received in Spain. I can understand for those without medical training or limited Spanish it can seem a little scary but I hope if we are all adventurous enough to walk the Camino we can manage a visit to a clinic or ER.

I would agree that the medical care was good.

Two things would have made things better (but they aren't medical issues):

• I thought that there would be more English spoken at the clinics. Not that it should be a requirement but I just sort of expected with all the foreign pilgrims passing through and stopping in this would be the case.

• Paying the bills from home was horrendous. Pay the bill while at the clinic if at all possible.

FYI, we stopped at the clinics in Sahagun (pop. 3,000) and Astorga (pop. 12,000), both reasonably large towns for the Camino Frances but English was not spoken there. At Sahagun my Spanish was just good enough to explain the problem and to get care instructions. It wasn't good enough to start asking billing questions. For the clinic visit in Astorga I had earlier typed a description of the problem and possible reasons why her foot hurt into my tablet and had it translated. That worked well. I showed it at the admittance desk, again to the nurse and again to the doctor. Much faster in the long run.

 

[Kanga]

In the one I read Australia was no 1.

 

[Albertagirl]

I had a minor medical problem a week or two ago. ( I am still on Camino). I went to a public medical clinic in a small town shortly after Burgos. I explained the problem to the person on reception. We seemed to understand one another. She gave me a form to take to the BBVA bank with an account number that I was supposed to make some kind of commitment to at the bank, before I received any service. She would not, or could not, let me pay cash. I did not understand the paper that she gave me, which was in Spanish. I knew that all that I needed was a prescription for an antibiotic, but by this point it appeared impossible to get. I did not return. Eventually, I threw the paper out. I had with me penicillin which my dentist had prescribed shortly before I left on Camino, in case a dental infection flared up. I decided, with considerable reluctance, to take these antibiotics in the hope that they might help, which they seem to have done. I finished them yesterday. I don't know whether the infection will recur.
In contrast, I first experienced this condition while on holiday in New Zealand a couple of years ago. I went to a local clinic, paid $100 to see a physician, was diagnosed and given a prescription and enough printed information to satisfy my insurer, which eventually paid my costs.
I do have insurance this time, as well. I never contacted my insurer, as I do not have a phone and trying to find a way to make an overseas call to the insurer through the Spanish telephone system just seemed beyond me. I realize that this level of incompetence on my part is most likely to arouse only contempt, or disbelief, in those who read this. But I truly never got beyond the conviction that I was being asked to make an unlimited financial commitment to a foreign bank before being treated by Spanish health care. In a real medical emergency, I am sure that I would receive good treatment and would sort out financial issues later. But in my case I was not given this option, and I suspect that I would do the same if a similar situation occurred. I would really appreciate having a list of private clinics along the Camino which would consent to treat me and charge me cash for it.

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

I hope you are better and stay better @Albertagirl. I suspect in a country where medical care is covered for all, there is not a great system for collecting via cash or credit card. I know if you go to many urgent care centers in the US, the first thing you must do is hand over your insurance card and a credit card. After that, you may speak to a nurse. I wouldn't let paperwork be a barrier to getting help if your symptoms recur. Also, if you think you just need medication, you might start with consulting a pharmacist.
For those not yet on the road, I personally would not travel without a phone, if only so I can be reached in an emergency back home, or call for help if I have an emergency. I got an inexpensive one with a sim card for cheap calls in Spain and back to the US. I also carried a small English-Spanish dictionary...my vocabulary is limited and my pronunciation deplorable, but I could point to words when all else failed.

 

[Albertagirl]

I hope you are better and stay better @Albertagirl. I suspect in a country where medical care is covered for all, there is not a great system for collecting via cash or credit card. I know if you go to many urgent care centers in the US, the first thing you must do is hand over your insurance card and a credit card. After that, you may speak to a nurse. I wouldn't let paperwork be a barrier to getting help if your symptoms recur. Also, if you think you just need medication, you might start with consulting a pharmacist.
For those not yet on the road, I personally would not travel without a phone, if only so I can be reached in an emergency back home, or call for help if I have an emergency. I got an inexpensive one with a sim card for cheap calls in Spain and back to the US. I also carried a small English-Spanish dictionary...my vocabulary is limited and my pronunciation deplorable, but I could point to words when all else failed.

@Smallest_Sparrow
I am aware of the insurance situation in the United States. For one thing, insurers which I looked to for insuring this journey inquired about whether any portion of my travel would take place within the United States. I said "no." I do not see myself travelling in or through the United States for the foreseeable future, regardless of my medical coverage.
Of course, the first thing which I did when I realized that I needed antibiotics was to inquire of a pharmacist, who said that a doctor's prescription is needed. In the future, I shall consult with my own physician as to whether I can get a prescription for this particular condition to have filled and take with me when I travel, as it does seem to be associated with long journeys.
As you can see, I travel with an iPad with which I can keep in touch with family, make reservations, etc. However, my insurer still seems to want communication by phone. For personal emergencies, I carry my SPOT emergency beacon, which will bring in emergency aid for me through a satellite system wherever I travel. This is just to indicate that I do my best to be prepared. But an open-ended financial commitment in a language which I do not understand is currently quite beyond me.
Thank you for your good wishes. I hope that the condition may not recur before I reach home. I am grateful to @JohnnieWalker for information about the private clinic in Santiago, but I expect to be very close to my returning home date by the time that I am in Santiago.

 

[SabsP]

So rankings are based 15% on the actual average health, 12.5% on timely delivery of health care and 72.5% on social factors. I prefer to judge quality on actual outcome of care, and how quickly it is available when I need it.
That said, from our anecdotal evidence here, care is good to excellent, reasonably priced, and quickly obtained. As a medical professional I was very satisfied with the help I received in Spain. I can understand for those without medical training or limited Spanish it can seem a little scary but I hope if we are all adventurous enough to walk the Camino we can manage a visit to a clinic or ER. And it makes for a great blog entry once it's all over.

Edit for math...hard to believe that was one of my majors

I can only give my very positive feedback regarding the help I received at the ER of the public hospital in SdC that John mentioned in his OP.
It was an urgent consultation but a non-threatening one ( I was 16 k away from SdC in Sigueiro, my last day on the Ingles ). They took their triage very seriously. Oxygen measurement, electrocardiogram and some sensible words from the ER doctor.
And I will not forget the local cab driver who stayed with me the whole time ( later I heard that he got this instruction from the hotelowners in Sigueiro to stay with me ).
And also the people at the clinic speak enough English although I must say that in these kind of circumstances I'm happy to be able to express myself in Spanish.

 

[Smallest_Sparrow]

I was seen in the urgent care clinic at the hospital in Pamplona, by paramedics. I won't describe the type of treatment I wanted for a partially avulsed nail--because the first time I saw Army medics do it I was horrified, and in good conscience would never tell someone to have it done...but I wanted it done on me. I tried for what I needed to do it myself at the pharmacy---she was horrified and sent me to the hospital. The paramedics were horrified (I kind of expected that) but spent a lot of time with me as we discussed other options. Everyone was very nice, tolerated my questionable language skills, took me back for treatment right away (for a very non-urgent problem), tried not to look horrified at what the strange American wanted, and all wished me a Buen Camino as I headed out the door ...I had partially convinced one paramedic to try my way (I think she was curious), the other was adamantly against it, so while I waited on a gurney for a third to come be a tie-breaker I had a chance to watch the ER staff...care and equipment was just as I'm used to in the States. I would not let language be a barrier to seeking health care, many common problems can be diagnosed with minimal words from the patient, and if a translator is needed usually one can be found somewhere.

 

[SYates]

@Albertagirl

There are a few of us, me included, on this forum that a) speak Spanish and b) would go out of our way to help out a fellow pilgrim via a three-fold telephone translated conversation.

Said that, taking an

I carry my SPOT emergency beacon,

but not a normal phone/mobile is a bit ... The Camino Francés isn't a wilderness walk (where an emergency beacon would be entirely appropriate) but a hike through inhabited countryside (where a phone can be helpful).

So, please, if your medical problem reoccurs - reach out to us and I am sure more than just me will be happy to provide telephonic translation/interpretation services.

Buen Camino, SY

PS Buying a cheap phone plus SIM card in Spain isn't costing an arm and a leg ...

 

[SYates]

I was seen in the urgent care clinic at the hospital in Pamplona, by paramedics. I won't describe the type of treatment I wanted for a partially avulsed nail--because the first time I saw Army medics do it I was horrified, and in good conscience would never tell someone to have it done...but I wanted it done on me. I tried for what I needed to do it myself at the pharmacy---she was horrified and sent me to the hospital. The paramedics were horrified (I kind of expected that) but spent a lot of time with me as we discussed other options. Everyone was very nice, tolerated my questionable language skills, took me back for treatment right away (for a very non-urgent problem), tried not to look horrified at what the strange American wanted, and all wished me a Buen Camino as I headed out the door ...I had partially convinced one paramedic to try my way (I think she was curious), the other was adamantly against it, so while I waited on a gurney for a third to come be a tie-breaker I had a chance to watch the ER staff...care and equipment was just as I'm used to in the States. I would not let language be a barrier to seeking health care, many common problems can be diagnosed with minimal words from the patient, and if a translator is needed usually one can be found somewhere.

Good old heated paper clip burning a hole trough nail approach ? SY

 

[SabsP]

Good old heated paper clip burning a whole trough nail approach ? SY

Now stop it will you!!

 

[OTH86]

Two comments here:
1). I have an outstanding medical bill from a Spanish clinic. At the time of service (6 months ago) I was in extreme pain, travelling alone, and didn't even think about paying for the care I received at the time. No one asked for payment, they said they would bill me later. Several months later, after I had returned to the US, I received the bill - $57.00 for consultation and two xrays. In order to pay it, I would have had to pay $45 for the funds transfer. Instead, I came back to Spain, and will now attempt to pay it. I just learned that, apparently, one can pay any medical bill by going to a bank as long as there is an identifying number. I'm not sure what that number is, but will soon find out, and report back here if this works!
EDIT: paid 5 days ago at Bankia, without 5 months interest, & rcv'd a signed & stamped receipt with a smile from the banker man!!!

2). As a result of this same injury, I learned that one must be sure to read and thoroughly understand any trip insurance one purchases. That may seem fairly intuitive, but... When you are travelling alone, are in extreme pain (you cannot pick up your backpack), and two physicians say the pain will go away in a few days - take these medications, and you want very much to continue your pilgrimage, you don't think about talking to the doctors about whether you should be sent home or not, especially if your language skills do not include medical, health, and American insurance terminology. After 10 days of walking around & "hanging out" but not able to even lift my pack, I decided to interrupt my trip and return home - but did not see a doctor to get written permission to interrupt my trip - as specified in the policy. The trip insurance company has refused payment for the airfare fees to change my ticket - twice. Please know I am not looking for sympathy or advice - I have worked in the insurance field in the (distant) past. Just be sure you follow all policy rules before making a decision on your own.
Buen Camino!

 

[SabsP]

Two comments here:
1). I have an outstanding medical bill from a Spanish clinic. At the time of service (6 months ago) I was in extreme pain, travelling alone, and didn't even think about paying for the care I received at the time. No one asked for payment, they said they would bill me later. Several months later, after I had returned to the US, I received the bill - $57.00 for consultation and two xrays. In order to pay it, I would have had to pay $45 for the funds transfer. Instead, I came back to Spain, and will now attempt to pay it. I just learned that, apparently, one can pay any medical bill by going to a bank as long as there is an identifying number. I'm not sure what that number is, but will soon find out, and report back here if this works!

2). As a result of this same injury, I learned that one must be sure to read and thoroughly understand any trip insurance one purchases. That may seem fairly intuitive, but... When you are travelling alone, are in extreme pain (you cannot pick up your backpack), and two physicians say the pain will go away in a few days - take these medications, and you want very much to continue your pilgrimage, you don't think about talking to the doctors about whether you should be sent home or not, especially if your language skills do not include medical, health, and American insurance terminology. After 10 days of walking around & "hanging out" but not able to even lift my pack, I decided to interrupt my trip and return home - but did not see a doctor to get written permission to interrupt my trip - as specified in the policy. The trip insurance company has refused payment for the airfare fees to change my ticket - twice. Please know I am not looking for sympathy or advice - I have worked in the insurance field in the (distant) past. Just be sure you follow all policy rules before making a decision on your own.
Buen Camino!

I do sympathise.

I admit that as an European resident I'm lucky with my E isurance card and all that comes with it.
Although lately, getting a bit older and more sensible, I take an extra private insurance through my regular broker for all the things my regular health insurance provider does not include in the contract. Like repatriation in case of death to mention the worst. Cost me 30 € for a month.

Yes I pay high taxes ( don't want to start a political thing by mentioning this ) but I'm so glad with my national health insurance and the contracts they have with all European countries.

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Thanks Oth86. Your story underlines what has been said before - if you become ill abroad at the earliest opportunity call your insurer. They should be able to offer help with translation and ensuring you get care - from a source on their approved list. In terms of discharge etc they can also be consulted and in your case would have avoided uninsured expenditure. Thanks for sharing this as it will help others.

BTW the number to which you are referring is the hospital's IBAN number. The bank may be able to supply it if you show them the bill.

Good luck

John

 

[OTH86]

I do sympathise.

I admit that as an European resident I'm lucky with my E isurance card and all that comes with it.
Although lately, getting a bit older and more sensible, I take an extra private insurance through my regular broker for all the things my regular health insurance provider does not include in the contract. Like repatriation in case of death to mention the worst. Cost me 30 € for a month.

Yes I pay high taxes ( don't want to start a political thing by mentioning this ) but I'm so glad with my national health insurance and the contracts they have with all European countries.

I quite envy you, @SabineP !

 

[OTH86]

Thanks Oth86. Your story underlines what has been said before - if you become ill abroad at the earliest opportunity call your insurer. They should be able to offer help with translation and ensuring you get care - from a source on their approved list. In terms of discharge etc they can also be consulted and in your case would have avoided uninsured expenditure. Thanks for sharing this as it will help others.

BTW the number to which you are referring is the hospital's IBAN number. The bank may be able to supply it if you show them the bill.

Good luck

John

Thanks, @JohnnieWalker !
I called the insurance co twice immediately when I fell, but not after that. Was told to get a doctor's stmt that I should be returned home. Almost end of call. I asked if it would help to bring in a concierge from my credit card co, and was told specifically NOT to do that as it would jeopardize the insurance. No offer of language or any other services. When this was mentioned in my appeal, it was ignored.
Re IBAN number. It's in the section "Medios de Pago". Yea! Thanks so much! Tomorrow in Burgos!!

 

[Albertagirl]

@Albertagirl

There are a few of us, me included, on this forum that a) speak Spanish and b) would go out of our way to help out a fellow pilgrim via a three-fold telephone translated conversation.

Said that, taking an but not a normal phone/mobile is a bit ... The Camino Francés isn't a wilderness walk (where an emergency beacon would be entirely appropriate) but a hike through inhabited countryside (where a phone can be helpful).

So, please, if your medical problem reoccurs - reach out to us and I am sure more than just me will be happy to provide telephonic translation/interpretation services.

Buen Camino, SY

PS Buying a cheap phone plus SIM card in Spain isn't costing an arm and a leg ...

@SYates
Thank you for the kind offer of medical translation, if needed. I was able, with my basic Spanish and a little help from Google Translate, to express to the receptionist what the medical problem was. More critical in my case was the (to me) totally incomprehensible idea of making some sort of financial arrangement with a bank before I could see a physician. This is why I wanted to thank @JohnnieWalker for his offer to make a make a list of private clinics on the Caminos, to see private patients who would pay them directly for their services.
I have never owned a cell phone, but it looks like I shall have to get one if I do another Camino. In Canada, the SPOT is much cheaper than local cell phone charges and usable worldwide. I considered getting a phone for this trip, but I believe that I would have had to get two, as I walked my first three days largely alone in the French Pyrenees. I have read a number of comments by Forum members as to how cell phone coverage is not always reliable in Spain, so I could not see acquiring a service which might not be available if I needed it. And I blush to admit that I have read numerous threads about cell phones and I still don't know what a SIM card is, or why I should have to buy one separate from the phone. I really sound like a technophobe, but I am very comfortable with my iPad and I don't see how I could manage my banking without it, for more than a month away. I suppose that medical issues outside of one's usual support system can be threatening. I do not really trust the medical insurance which I bought for this trip (or any private medical insurance). I ,just do my best and hope not to need it.

 

[SYates]

O.K... I try to break that down into manageable bits - my replies in italics ...

... totally incomprehensible idea of making some sort of financial arrangement with a bank before I could see a physician.

If you don't have an EHIC (European Health Card/Insurance) the hospital/doctor will keep your card on file simply to make sure that their expenses (tests/time) are met. Same would apply in the US/Canada if you don't have valid insurance - Correct?

I considered getting a phone for this trip, but I believe that I would have had to get two, as I walked my first three days largely alone in the French Pyrenees. I have read a number of comments by Forum members as to how cell phone coverage is not always reliable in Spain, so I could not see acquiring a service which might not be available if I needed it. And I blush to admit that I have read numerous threads about cell phones and I still don't know what a SIM card is, or why I should have to buy one separate from the phone.

The phone is just the device, the Sim card is what makes it work and connect. I try an analogy. The phone is the carriage and the SIM card is the horse. A phone without SIM card goes close to nowhere (but you still can call 112 and other emergency numbers! but not make normal calls). (Horses) SIM cards are easily switched before/in the carriage (phone) and whilst the carriage (phone) can travel to many countries, the horses (SIM cards) are more country specific (speaking very generally).

I am very comfortable with my iPad - Installing http://www.skype.com on it might be a really good idea, that way you can call/text people via free wifi.

I do not really trust the medical insurance which I bought for this trip (or any private medical insurance). I ,just do my best and hope not to need it. - Then get another one for your next Camino!

Buen Camino, SY

 

[Alan Pearce]

On one trip I had to attend the emergency department at Lugo hospital. Once they had copies of my passport and my travel insurance, they were content to treat me, and say that they would send me the bill later [ but they never did ].

My travel insurance has international numbers I can call at cheap rates to ask for any advice from native English speaking staff.

Alan

Be brave. Life is joyous.

 

[Kanga]

In the 16 years I've been walking the Camino (not continually) I've been treated a few times, sometimes in a hospital and sometimes in medical centres, the most recent last May. I've never been charged. In May, conscious that these days non EU pilgrims do have to pay, when I asked they waved me away.

 

[Albertagirl]

All this talk about how to plan for and deal with medical issues on Camino is coming back to haunt me. What did I eat for supper that I shouldn't have? Stomach cramps and chills are keeping me awake and very uncomfortably alert. Eventually, I shall consult my medical chest and try to get things under control. Good night all. May you have a better night than I am anticipating.

 

[dougfitz]

Please note that it isn't "David's list"!

@David, mea culpa. I was acknowledging your role in providing this information in this thread rather than attributing authorship. You are correct that this could have been made clearer.

 

[CdnDreamer]

Two comments here:
1). I have an outstanding medical bill from a Spanish clinic. At the time of service (6 months ago) I was in extreme pain, travelling alone, and didn't even think about paying for the care I received at the time. No one asked for payment, they said they would bill me later. Several months later, after I had returned to the US, I received the bill - $57.00 for consultation and two xrays. In order to pay it, I would have had to pay $45 for the funds transfer. Instead, I came back to Spain, and will now attempt to pay it. I just learned that, apparently, one can pay any medical bill by going to a bank as long as there is an identifying number. I'm not sure what that number is, but will soon find out, and report back here if this works!

2). As a result of this same injury, I learned that one must be sure to read and thoroughly understand any trip insurance one purchases. That may seem fairly intuitive, but... When you are travelling alone, are in extreme pain (you cannot pick up your backpack), and two physicians say the pain will go away in a few days - take these medications, and you want very much to continue your pilgrimage, you don't think about talking to the doctors about whether you should be sent home or not, especially if your language skills do not include medical, health, and American insurance terminology. After 10 days of walking around & "hanging out" but not able to even lift my pack, I decided to interrupt my trip and return home - but did not see a doctor to get written permission to interrupt my trip - as specified in the policy. The trip insurance company has refused payment for the airfare fees to change my ticket - twice. Please know I am not looking for sympathy or advice - I have worked in the insurance field in the (distant) past. Just be sure you follow all policy rules before making a decision on your own.
Buen Camino!

@OTH86 So you decided to fly from Seattle to Spain to pay the $57 clinic bill so you could save the $45 fund transfer fee? Did you make this decision ON YOUR OWN as well? Sorry, I couldn't resist... I don't know how the others missed this part of your story!

 

[dougfitz]

@OTH86 So you decided to fly from Seattle to Spain to pay the $57 clinic bill so you could save the $45 fund transfer fee? Did you make this decision ON YOUR OWN as well? Sorry, I couldn't resist... I don't know how the others missed this part of your story!

Maybe we didn't miss it so much as we understood about going personally to pay one's bills, rather than leave these important matters in the hands of banks or the post office.

 

[SYates]

All this talk about how to plan for and deal with medical issues on Camino is coming back to haunt me. What did I eat for supper that I shouldn't have? Stomach cramps and chills are keeping me awake and very uncomfortably alert. Eventually, I shall consult my medical chest and try to get things under control. Good night all. May you have a better night than I am anticipating.

Oh Dear! Hope you had a better night than you feared and are feeling better now! SY

 

[Albertagirl]

Oh Dear! Hope you had a better night than you feared and are feeling better now! SY

@SYates
Thank you for the good wishes. Fortunately, I had decided, for no particular reason, to take a single room last night, and I did not have to share the bathroom. I was quite uncomfortable for some hours, but eventually decided that this was the right time to take some medication. All is well since. I am now sitting in a bar in Leon enjoying a morning cafe con leche with cake. Imagine my dismay when the server offered me for breakfast exactly what I think made me so sick last night! I was planning to take a couple of days off here, so should be in fine form by the time that I leave. I'll better be. My time is running short - no more side trips.
Thanks again for all the good advice and information. When I get home, if I decide to come to the Camino again, I shall consult the appropriate threads for updates on my health and security measures. I appreciate what you and others do to help us keep informed.

 

[mspath]

Albertagirl,

Glad that you are feeling better!

Perhaps in a day or so you might enjoy while in Léon the local hot chocolate so thick that the spoon almost stands in the cup. Chocolate con churros, served with freshly made crullers is a delicious, caloric treat and fuel for walking! For an additional delicious pick-up try freshly squeezed zumo naranja or orange juice.

Stay well and Carpe diem!

 

[OTH86]

@OTH86 So you decided to fly from Seattle to Spain to pay the $57 clinic bill so you could save the $45 fund transfer fee? Did you make this decision ON YOUR OWN as well? Sorry, I couldn't resist... I don't know how the others missed this part of your story!

I certainly DID make that decision ON MY OWN - as I do ALL my decisions! (Most work, a few don't) With tongue FIRMLY planted in cheek! Good on ya, @CdnDreamer for catching my humor!! Was planning to return to the Camino anyway, and thought I'd try to pay from HERE-Burgos on the Camino!! IT WORKED!! I just now (before 14.15 closing time) paid the bill! On the back of my factura is the name of the bank where I should pay and the IBAN, as @JohnnieWalker said. Got a beautiful receipt so I can turn it in to my health ins for reimbursement! What a fabulous way of doing things!!
I am HAPPY on the Camino!!!

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

In order to pay it, I would have had to pay $45 for the funds transfer. Instead, I came back to Spain, and will now attempt to pay it. I just learned that, apparently, one can pay any medical bill by going to a bank as long as there is an identifying number.

I think that in the EU these bank transfers are cheap or free. My U.S. bank wanted to charge $40 but if you setup an online account with Western Union I think they charge $10. The real problem in the U.S. though is the rule to have the person's name included with the transfer (an anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering requirement.) Good luck with that. Always try to pay at the time of treatment.

 

[Albertagirl]

Albertagirl,

Glad that you are feeling better!

Perhaps in a day or so you might enjoy while in Léon the local hot chocolate so thick that the spoon almost stands in the cup. Chocolate con churros, served with freshly made crullers is a delicious, caloric treat and fuel for walking! For an additional delicious pick-up try freshly squeezed zumo naranja or orange juice.

Stay well and Carpe diem!

@mspath
So I appreciated your reminder. When lost near the cathedral earlier today I came upon the same little chocolate shop where I enjoyed chocolate y churros last year in Leon, so I sat down and enjoyed the treat. I had forgotten how strong is the chocolate taste and how thick the texture in the second half of the cup. I am here for another two days, so I may have to go back for another reminder before I move on.

 

[movinmaggie]

I think that in the EU these bank transfers are cheap or free. My U.S. bank wanted to charge $40 but if you setup an online account with Western Union I think they charge $10. The real problem in the U.S. though is the rule to have the person's name included with the transfer (an anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering requirement.) Good luck with that. Always try to pay at the time of treatment.[/QUOTE

Rather than the an expensive wire transfer, another option is to purchase a Money Order in Euro currency and send it via snail mail, which is what I did two months after receiving my bill. They sent a very nice letter of appreciation in return. This is a valued thread and (all my notes to be shared) will be helpful to Newcomers at our November gathering of Pilgrims (old and new) here in Victoria BC. One of our topics is 'Medical issues on the Camino'. So many excellent posts. Thank you John et al

 

[movinmaggie]

Whoops...not sure where my post last ended up....I'll try again from memory).

A less expensive option of a wire transfer, is to purchase a Money Order in Euro currency and send via snail mail, which is what I did two months after I received the bill. I received a nice letter in return with a very official statement which translated to Paid In Full.
This is a very valued thread (with much note-taking) and will be shared at our upcoming Camino gathering in November, helping old and new Pilgrims alike. One of our panel topics will be 'Medical Issues On the Camino'. Thanks to all for the great posts and thank you John for reviving the topic. It will be such a valuable asset to have available here.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

A less expensive option of a wire transfer, is to purchase a Money Order in Euro currency and send via snail mail,

I tried something like that too but I still ran into the problem of the U.S. government requiring a person's name with the check. And, in my case at least, it wasn't going to be any cheaper anyway. I still say that the easiest way will be to pay while you are there.

 

[movinmaggie]

I tried something like that too but I still ran into the problem of the U.S. government requiring a person's name with the check. And, in my case at least, it wasn't going to be any cheaper anyway. I still say that the easiest way will be to pay while you are there.

Rick my bank also required a name on the Money Order. It was made out to the name of the clinic. The MO serves as a cheque, but in Euros. Yes, dfinitely best to pay at time of treatment. In my case ther was not the option.

 

[OTH86]

I still say that the easiest way will be to pay while you are there.

Totally agree - UNLESS one is alone & in excruciating pain - logical thought processes go right out the window!! It is now a moot point for me, since the bill has been paid, in country, no interest, and a smile with the receipt I love the Spanish ways!!
¡Buen Camino a todos! Terry

 

[Magicmum]

We completed our Camino Frances and returned home October 13th. We walked until Roz couldn't walk anymore. What we thought, and the first doctor thought, was gastroenteritis turned out to be a stone blocking the bile duct with accompanying jaundice, nausea, pain, dark urine, infection, pancreatitis etc. She was seen by a doctor at the medical centre in Arzua who told us using google translate that she needed to be in hospital in Santiago so we went to CHUS. They admitted her, gave her all kinds of tests, treated her for infection and then used surgical endoscopy to remove the stone. Total time in hospital was six days. We cleared everything with our insurance provider first so that the hospital billed the insurance company directly. This did involve putting our Canadian SIM card in the phone, calling them and then having them call us back on the Spanish SIM card several times. We also communicated through email although the hospital has no public access wifi so I had to go to a bar down the street. The medical staff was excellent. The difficulties with language were large but use of Spanish Dict on the phone for us and google translate for them helped a lot. So did using gestures and sound effects. The hardest part was her being so sick and knowing no one in Spain except other pilgrims who were not in Santiago. We are home now, highly unlikely to travel anywhere any time soon but she is gradually recovering. Who knew you could have a gallstone when your gallbladder had been removed two years previously? Always carried health insurance when we travel but ever used it before. They did have Spanish speakers who could call the hospital directly and that was immensely helpful. Clearing everything with them beforehand was essential. Now all we have to deal with is submitting all the incidental expenses. They did fly us from Santiago to Madrid when it became obvious there was no way taking a train was possible. She did have to have a certificate clearing her as medically fit to fly (although no one asked for it) and wheelchair service to get from one gate or terminal to another for the flight transfers in Madrid, Paris and Toronto. Buen Camino and may no one else get a stone in the bile duct while walking!

 

[John Sikora]

Another thing you might want to consider is to join IAMAT. It's on the web and provides referrals and listings of English speaking doctors. While not necessary, it is helpful to talk to someone if you just need to refill a prescription or need some advice. I've used them in Spain as well as Peru and always had a prompt response and straight answers. I think it's $50 a year or so just to keep the network in operation.

www.iamat.org

 

[oursonpolaire]

My experience is that the small Centro de Salud which one sees often make no charge on presentation of the Credencial....

This was once the case, but increasing financial constraints have made it less so. For very minor issues, they did not want to bother with the paperwork. When I used one in Sangüesa some years ago, they were helpful but gave me a bill-- I gave the money to my hotel which did the transfer. An Alberta doctor I know received treatment for a knee problem (and was very happy with their work) but was sufficiently guilt-ridden over having received no bill that he found out the director's name and sent him 200€, which they kept for out-of-pocket pilgrim expenses.

However, I would underline what others have said about the importance of health insurance while travelling in Spain. We are not freeloaders, and should be prepared to pay our way when care is needed.

 

[Seeker43]

Another thing you might want to consider is to join IAMAT. It's on the web and provides referrals and listings of English speaking doctors. While not necessary, it is helpful to talk to someone if you just need to refill a prescription or need some advice. I've used them in Spain as well as Peru and always had a prompt response and straight answers. I think it's $50 a year or so just to keep the network in operation.

www.iamat.org

Their website says Membership is free and renewable in a year with a donation. An amount was not mentioned.

 

[AlwynWellington]

The original post was about medical care in Santiago de Compostela and elsewhere.

In four weeks walking from Le Puy-en-velay to Hontanas I sought medical advice on three occasions.

The first was in Eauze. The point where the front of the leg joins the foot was causing much pain that day amd severly restricting my walking. (I suspect it was the shoe laces tied too tight). I hitched and got a ride from a husband and wife and a friend (with two children in tow) heading to Eauze to present a concert. They ensured I had accommodation and I went top their concert. The gite owner had no English and I no French. But two simultaneous sessions of Google Translate on my Android tablet saved the day and I got to see a local GP as a walk-in the next morning: very low cost. But the consult was a funny as a pantomime. One more day resting in the gite and looking around the town and the owner (who was also a marvelous cook and dinner hostess over two nights) drove me to the next town.

About 10 days later I made a wonderful and quick descent down a flight of stairs from the silhouettes on Sierra del Perdon with no problems. The next day I experienced significant pain in various places at the top of the right leg only. Made it to Estella/Lizarra and advised by the Brazilian hospitalero to rest up, so took off for four days. Restarting at Logrono the pain set in again. Went to the parish albergue and the hospitalero took me to the emergency department in the hospital where the hospitalero was vital link in taking the history. A jab (didn't get the details). No cost as I showed by UK/Euro passport.

Walked the next day (Thursday) and bused forward to Burgos on the Friday as I had lost my poncho. Walked Saturday (to Tardajos) and Sunday (to Hontanas) and on Monday could not stand and walk only with support. Ambulanced back to Burgos main hospital: one x-ray shot, no phyiscal and diagnosed with osteo-arthritis (seemed to be based on age more than anything). Told to go away and rest. No charge.

About two weeks later I was being x-rayed (about 10 or 12 shots) at a hospital in the western edge of greater London: the verdict - NOT osteo-arthritis. No charge.

My analysis: a mixed bag of diagnoses in Spain and significant language barriers in the places I sought advice.

And as I have proven over five years of secondary school French, I cannot get languages (possibly including English), so no advice to learn Spanish, please.