Last Tuesday around 100 people were welcomed to a healthcare ‘super surgery’ in Guardamar del Segura by mayoress Marylène Albentosa. The event, led by the British Consulate in Alicante, provided local residents with comprehensive advice from a number of experts.
A whole range of concerns over accessing healthcare were raised and addressed in a thorough talk by Martyn Standing, advisor for the British Consulate Pensions, Benefits and Healthcare Team. He began by playing a round of ‘fact or fiction’ with the audience to get an idea of what they already knew. Martyn said:
“Though most people are aware that rules about state healthcare in Spain are different to those in the UK, some are confused by rumours or misinformation they have picked up. That’s why it’s important to get your information from official sources.”
Martyn then outlined options available to those below and above pension age and those who have or have not worked in Spain. Details around getting a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as a pensioner living in Spain were of particular interest to the audience. Martyn explained that recent changes to EU law mean that those registered on an E121(now S1) form in Spain should apply for their EHIC in the UK to travel outside of Spain.
After presentations, those who still had doubts about their individual cases were invited to a one-on-one consultation with the experts. Other information sources at the event included representatives from cancer charity MABS, Age Concern España, the Royal British Legion and HELP. The organisations offered lots of local knowledge and outlined the services they can offer. They also managed to meet some potential members and volunteers.
British Consulate staff believe that in working together with other local associations, many people left the Casa de Cultura in Guardamar del Segura with a greater understanding of how to register properly for healthcare.
The meeting was also considered a success by Bill Bridges, member of local campaign group PUMA22, who has been working closely with the British Consulate on accessing and providing accurate information on healthcare: ‘PUMA22 is very aware, and very appreciative, of the input and drive of the Consul General in making all of this possible’.
Source: The Leader
