  
WINDSURFING HOLIDAYS IN SPAIN (EUROPE)
HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION: SPAIN
Spain has very few health issues to be concerned about. No inoculations are needed and the health infrastructure is of a good standard.
CRIME
The rate of violent crime is low in Spain. However, theft from cars is a problem, as is pick pocketing. Visitors are advised not to accept help from anyone except a uniformed police officer, as there have been reports of thieves pretending to assist stranded motorists. A smart thing to do, is to make spare copies of your passport and tickets, write down numbers of your traveller's checks and credit cards. This should, of course, be kept away from the very same items. If you are part of a group, give copies away to some of your friends.
While there are a few small political resistance groups, the most active being ETA and GRAPO, their attacks are usually directed against government and military targets.
MARY JANE
Some travellers to Spain take up offers on cannabis, believing that this is no problem. Spanish policy on Marijuana is a bit fuzzy but in order to avoid potential problems, if you must, carry only small quantities fit for no more than your own consumption.
MEDICAL
EUROPEAN UNION CITIZENS
As a citizen of the European Union, you are entitled to free medical and hospital care. You do need to show your European Health Card (EHC), you will be seen by a GP at a local health centre or at your accommodation if you are unable to make the journey. If you need to see a specialist or go into hospital, the GP will give you the relevant medical certificate or referral. Accident and Emergency services are available at hospitals.
European Health Card (EHC)
In 2004 The European Health Card replaced the temporary stay forms - i.e. the E-111 and E-128. It entitles you to the same medical care as before, identical to that received by Spanish citizens. It is valid for the period shown on the card. It is available from the relevant healthcare organisation in your country of origin. Private doctors and hospitals in Spain do not accept the European Health Card. If you require private healthcare you must settle your own bills or take out an insurance policy that covers it.
The following are not covered in Spain: dental treatment (apart from emergency extractions) and repatriation for medical treatment. Also the European Health Card is not valid if you have travelled to Spain in order to receive specific medical treatment. The same applies to all other EU countries.
Some countries do not use the European Health Card yet. If this is the case, you should travel with the relevant document from your country, which has been designated valid until the new card is introduced. In any case, you should contact the relevant office in your country of origin for full details regarding current requirements to receive medical care in Spain.
NON EUROPEAN UNION CITIZENS
Countries that follow European Community rules i.e. Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein enjoy the same health care benefits as member countries.
UK citizens have been given European Health Insurance cards. A number of countries, including the UK, had 2 year derogations to the Directive. This has replaced the E111 form.
Countries with which Spain has bilateral agreements i.e. Andorra, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Peru, will receive free medical care and hospitalisation in the case of a medical emergency, or accident, by showing the corresponding certificate from your country of origin.
Other countries
Although you will be treated in case of emergency, you will need to pay for medical attention, so you are advised to purchase health insurance.
In any case, you should ask your health insurance provider, or social care institution, about their requirements and policies about getting medical attention in Spain.
MORE INFORMATION
Local hazard information is provided on a region-by-region basis. For more info on 'local' Hazards & Safety browse the following link:
Canary Islands - Fuerteventura
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