Ibuprofen Ministry of Health of Spain has launched a public consultation to review the Royal Decree, which regulates the right of Spanish citizens to receive health care in other countries of the European Union (EU)This regulation, in force since 2014, incorporated Directive 2011/24/EU, making it easier for European citizens to access health services in another Member State as if they were local residents.
The open consultation It will allow citizens and organizations to present their opinions and suggestions on the regulations before they are formally drafted.Among the highlights, the ministry considers that Annex II of the decree, which lists the health services subject to prior authorization, requires updating to align with the medical and technological advances of the last decade.
Proposed changes and current situation
Currently, the cross-border healthcare system in the EU is based on two frameworks: the Social Security Coordination Regulations and Directive 2011/24/EU. While the former requires the use of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the Provisional Replacement Certificate (PSC) to receive care in another EU country, the Directive facilitates access to most services without the need for prior authorisation.
However, some specific procedures, such as hospitalizations, specialized treatments or advanced testing, still require authorization, ensuring that the patient is covered and that health systems can plan appropriately.
The proposed update aims to Maintain this authorization requirement for certain categories of care, including long-term hospital stays and advanced treatments such as MRIs, angiograms, radiation therapy, and assisted reproductive techniques.These conditions seek to balance accessibility to healthcare abroad with the sustainability and planning of the Spanish healthcare system.
A process open until November 20
Comments and suggestions can be submitted until November 20, 2024, at which time the Commission for Benefits, Insurance and Financing (CPAF), in coordination with the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (CISNS), will evaluate all proposals to incorporate them into the final draft of the project.
This public consultation reinforces the administration's commitment to transparency and the continuous improvement of health services, guaranteeing the right of Spanish citizens to receive quality healthcare within and outside the country.
