With my elderly parents visiting recently and having some mobility issues, I thought about buying a wheelchair. I also wanted to get a simple electronic blood pressure monitor for easy, regular checks. Being new to Spain, I wasn’t familiar with where to go, unlike back home where I could just order one from an app. After doing some research and asking some neighbors, I discovered there are quite a few options for buying these items in Spain. I’m sharing what I learned to help anyone with similar needs.
Main Purchasing Channels
Farmacia and Parafarmacia
The most direct and convenient options are, of course, pharmacies (Farmacias) and parapharmacies (Parafarmacias). You can find them in almost every neighborhood. Small, standard home monitoring devices like blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and thermometers are usually in stock at a Farmacia. However, if you need a wheelchair, walker, or more specialized orthopedic equipment, you’ll need to visit a dedicated Ortopedia. Many pharmacies also collaborate with these stores and can order items for you, though it might take a few days.
Large Supermarkets and Electronics Stores
Some large supermarket chains, like Carrefour or the electronics section of El Corte Inglés, sometimes carry branded electronic blood pressure monitors, massagers, and other small health appliances. The advantage is that you might find good deals during sales seasons, and you can pay by card and handle returns easily for these medical devices in Spain. However, the selection is relatively limited, so it’s more a matter of luck.
Online Stores
If you’re looking for a wide range of models and competitive prices, buying online is your best bet. Besides the well-known Amazon.es, there are also specialized e-commerce sites focused on health and medical products that comply with local regulations such as AEMPS registration. I did a comparison and found that Amazon has a huge selection, from basic models costing a few dozen euros to multi-functional wheelchairs for several hundred. Reading user reviews gives you a good idea of the quality. Plus, home delivery is a blessing for those with limited mobility. Just be sure to check the seller’s information and return policy before purchasing.
A Few Practical Tips
Finally, here are a few tips. For devices like wheelchairs and walkers that you really need to ‘try before you buy,’ I highly recommend visiting a physical Ortopedia store first if you’re not in a hurry. You can get a feel for the material, weight, and how easily it folds. Once you know what you’re looking for, you can decide where to buy it. If you’re considering buying second-hand, for example through platforms like Wallapop, always arrange for an in-person transaction. Carefully inspect all functions to ensure they work properly, especially the brakes and tires. Here is a comparison table of the different channels for your reference:
| Channel | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Farmacia/Ortopedia | Professional advice, guaranteed after-sales service | Higher prices, limited selection |
| Large Supermarkets | Convenient shopping, you may find discounts on products with MDR certification | Limited variety, less professional focus |
| Amazon & other E-commerce | Affordable prices, vast selection | Can’t test products in person, returns can be a hassle |
| Second-hand Platforms | Excellent value for money | Quality not guaranteed, requires careful inspection |
