Healthcare is a critical aspect of individuals’ well-being, and the costs associated with it can significantly impact quality of life. The United States and Spain are two countries with distinct healthcare systems which if you are considering a move between the two, can be useful to compare. In this article, we’ll delve into the average cost of healthcare in the US and Spain, exploring the differences in approaches, expenses, and the overall impact on residents’ lives.
Healthcare in the United States
The United States is known for its complex healthcare system, characterized by a mix of public and private providers. Healthcare costs in the US are notably higher than in most developed countries. Factors contributing to this include the prevalence of private insurance, high administrative costs, and the expense of prescription drugs.
Health insurance rates vary significantly based on age, playing a crucial role in determining costs within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. According to data from Healthcare.gov, the average monthly costs for unsubsidized ACA plans demonstrate a clear correlation with age.
For individuals at the age of 21, the average monthly cost is $397, which gradually increases to $419 at age 27 and further to $453 at age 30. As individuals progress through life, the costs continue to rise, reaching $509 at age 40, $712 at age 50, and a massive $1,079 at age 60.
Spain’s Healthcare System
Spain, in contrast, operates under a universal healthcare system, ensuring that all residents have access to medical services. The system is funded through taxes, offering a more equitable approach to healthcare. If you are a Spanish citizen or legal resident, you are entitled to comprehensive healthcare coverage, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
If your plans involve an extended stay in Spain, surpassing the 90-day mark, it’s crucial to arrange a private health insurance contract, a requirement applicable to both EU and non-EU nationals. You can find the requirements of healthcare for the specific visa you wish to apply for on the Spanish Government Website .
For the Non-Lucrative Visa, private insurance is required during the first year, however, in the second year you can pay to join the Spanish public system for a monthly fee ( €60 under 65, €157 over 65) which covers pre-existing conditions. Prescriptions are paid for separately, but are not as expensive as those in the United States.
Life Expectancy
The divergence in life expectancy between the United States and Spain sheds light on the significant disparities in health outcomes and healthcare systems. According to the latest data, individuals in the USA have an average life expectancy of 76.6 years, while their counterparts in Spain enjoy a notably longer lifespan of 83.86 years. This substantial difference underscores the intricate interplay of healthcare access, lifestyle factors, and societal determinants.
Affordability in Spain
The financial commitment for this insurance hinges on various factors, including age, gender, and any pre-existing health conditions. On average, monthly health insurance costs typically range between €100 to €200 (112 to 224 USD). However, some prominent insurance companies offer competitive plans starting as low as €50 (56 USD) per month. Noteworthy private health providers in Spain include Allianz, Cigna, AXA, Bupa, Adeslas, ASSSA, Globality Health, MAPFRE, and Sanitas (BUPA in the UK).
Whether you’re a pensioner seeking retirement in the sun or a digital nomad navigating a dynamic lifestyle, it’s important to ensure that your healthcare aligns with your aspirations in Spain.
Marisa Moreno Castillo
Danish Consul & Senior Lawyer at Just Law Solicitors.
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📞WhatsApp +34 663 373 535
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