Healthcare in Almería – Hospitals, Pharmacies and Emergency Care

Healthcare in Almeria

Knowing what to do in case of illness or injury makes a big difference while you’re in Almeria. This page is a practical reference you can come back to during your stay, covering emergency numbers, public and private healthcare, pharmacies, insurance, and what to expect if you need treatment.

Emergency numbers

For any serious emergency in Spain, dial 112. It is free, available 24/7, and connects you to ambulance, police and fire services. In practice, 112 is the safest number to remember because it covers everything.

For medical emergencies specifically, you may also see 061 (health emergencies). If you are unsure, call 112.

Public healthcare in Almeria

Spain’s public healthcare system is widely regarded as strong and reliable. Emergency departments in public hospitals operate continuously, and urgent care is available when you need it.

In Almeria province, key public hospitals include:

Hospital Universitario Torrecárdenas (Almeria city, public) – the main reference hospital for major emergencies and specialist care
Hospital de Poniente (El Ejido, public)
Hospital La Inmaculada (Huercal-Overa area, public)

Private hospitals and clinics

Private healthcare is also widely available in Almeria. Many visitors and longer-stay residents choose private clinics for quicker appointments, straightforward billing, or specialist consultations.

Private care is normally paid upfront, and you then claim reimbursement from your insurer (if your policy covers it). In coastal areas with larger international communities, you are more likely to find English-speaking staff.

A well-known private facility in Almeria city is Hospital Mediterráneo (private).

EHIC, GHIC and what they cover

If you are an EU visitor, a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) allows you to access medically necessary treatment in the public system during a temporary stay. UK visitors should carry a valid GHIC.

EHIC/GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. It typically does not cover private healthcare, repatriation, non-urgent elective treatment, or additional costs that can arise if your plans change.

Travel insurance and longer stays

If you are visiting Almeria for a holiday, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Look for medical cover that includes hospitalisation, emergency transport, and (if relevant) sports or hiking activities.

If you are staying longer in the province, insurance questions become more important. Depending on your situation, you may rely on:

Private Spanish health insurance
International health insurance
Public healthcare access through residency and social security registration

Healthcare access rules can vary by nationality and residency pathway, so it’s best to treat insurance as a practical requirement for longer stays, not an optional extra.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (farmacias) are easy to recognise by the green cross and are available in every town and most villages. Spanish pharmacists are highly trained and can help with minor issues, over-the-counter medication, and guidance on next steps.

Typical opening hours are around 9:30–13:30 and 17:00–20:00 on weekdays, with reduced hours on Saturdays depending on the town.

Outside standard hours, a rotating duty pharmacy (farmacia de guardia) provides service. The current duty schedule is usually posted on pharmacy doors and locally.

Prescriptions and regular medication

If you take regular medication, bring an adequate supply for your stay and keep a copy (paper or digital) of your prescription. This can make it easier to explain what you need if you have to visit a doctor or pharmacy in Spain.

Some medicines that are prescription-only in other countries may be available differently in Spain, and some products are more strictly regulated. If you have any doubt, a pharmacy is often the best first step for advice.