Healthcare in Alicante: What British Expats Should Know Before Moving

For many British expats, Alicante offers the perfect mix of ☀️ sunshine, Mediterranean lifestyle, and affordable property. But before making the move, one of the first questions is always: how does healthcare in Alicante work? Understanding the basics will help you feel more confident and avoid unnecessary stress.

The Spanish Healthcare System in Alicante

Spain is known for having one of the best healthcare systems in Europe, and Alicante is no exception. Healthcare is split between two main options:

• Public system (Seguridad Social) – Tax-funded, giving residents access to doctors and hospitals through residency and social security contributions.
• Private system – Widely available and popular with expats thanks to shorter waiting times, greater flexibility, and often English-speaking staff.

In fact, many British expats choose to use both systems to enjoy the benefits of each.

Hospitals and Medical Centres in Alicante

The province has excellent medical facilities. Alongside local health centres, well-known private hospitals such as Quirón and IMED provide first-class care, with many staff experienced in treating international patients 🧑‍⚕️👩‍⚕️. English-speaking support is often available, making it easier to settle into the healthcare system.

Why Private Health Insurance Is a Popular Choice

Even though Spain’s public healthcare is highly regarded, many expats take out private health insurance for:

✅ Faster appointments
✅ More choice of doctors and hospitals
✅ English-speaking services
✅ Affordable costs compared to the UK

At Casas Connect, we work closely with a trusted health insurance company 🤝, offering different policies depending on your needs. This ensures you and your family have complete peace of mind from day one. Contact us for more info!

Practical Tips Before Moving

• Register as a resident to access the public system.
• Keep your health card or private insurance documents with you.
• While English-speaking staff are common in Alicante’s private clinics, it’s still worth being prepared.

Final Thoughts

Healthcare is just one part of planning your move to Alicante—but it’s an important one. With a combination of public and private options, supported by high-quality hospitals and insurance services, you’ll have peace of mind when starting your new life here.

If you’re considering relocating and want guidance on everything—from healthcare to finding your dream home—our friendly team at Casas Connect is here to support you every step of the way. 🙂