Consulates issue lists of English-speaking doctors. The E-111 certificate issued by the British government entitles you to short-term visits (up to three months) to health centres, clinics and hospitals of the public health sector (Seguridad Social). The same applies to visitors from other West European countries.

Foreigners who have lived and worked in Spain for more than three months are also legally obliged to register with the police and pay Social Security. US citizens who intend to stay short-term should obtain private travel insurance.

The Spanish level of health service complies with the general European standard. Poli-clinics in the public health sector will treat emergencies first, patients with less severe conditions such as flu should be prepared for longer waiting times.

Pharmacies take turns opening night shifts to ensure 24-hour coverage. The names and addresses of chemists on duty can be obtained online: Barcelona Col·legi de Farmacèutics. In addition, sometimes closed pharmacies post lists outside indicating the location of the nearest open pharmacy.

Other resources: Social Security's Drogodependencias (counselling for drug addiction): +34 93 412 04 12 and SIDA (AIDS infoline): +34 900 21 22 22.

Emergency Calls:

• Emergency: 112
• Ambulance: 061
• Fire Department - Barcelona: 080
• Police - Guardia Urbana: 092
• Police - Mossos d'Esquadra: 088
• Police - Policía Nacional: 091

The Barcelona city government also provides numbers for hospitals, veterinarians, and other services.

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