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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.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
My travel insurance covers from the day I leave Australia until the day I land back in Sydney.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.
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.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
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.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.
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.
I would agree that the medical care was good.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.
@Smallest_SparrowI 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.
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
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).I carry my SPOT emergency beacon,
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 whole trough nail approach ?SY
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 quite envy you, @SabineP !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.
Thanks, @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
@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 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 ...
@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.Please note that it isn't "David's list"!
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!
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.@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!
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.
@SYatesOh Dear! Hope you had a better night than you feared and are feeling better now! SY
@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 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.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.
@mspathAlbertagirl,
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!
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
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.A less expensive option of a wire transfer, is to purchase a Money Order in Euro currency and send via snail mail,
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.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.
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 receiptI still say that the easiest way will be to pay while you are there.
My experience is that the small Centro de Salud which one sees often make no charge on presentation of the Credencial....
Their website says Membership is free and renewable in a year with a donation. An amount was not mentioned.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
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