Shortly after I arrived in Spain, my doctor recommended an abdominal ultrasound for some minor health issues. At the time, I was completely clueless about the healthcare system here, especially the costs, so I struggled for a long time deciding between public and private options. Today, I’m sharing what I’ve learned and my experiences to help others who might be in the same confusing situation.
Public Hospitals
If you are covered by social security (Seguridad Social), most examinations at public hospitals, including ultrasounds, are theoretically free of charge. The usual process is to first visit your family doctor (médico de cabecera), who will issue a referral. You then take this referral to the designated hospital or diagnostic center to book an appointment. The biggest issue is the waiting time. Depending on the region and the urgency of the examination, scheduling an ultrasound can take several weeks or even months. For instance, in the Community of Madrid, the waiting time for a non-urgent abdominal ultrasound is typically 4-8 weeks. Of course, in an emergency, you’ll be prioritized, but that’s not a regular appointment.
Private Hospitals
Private hospitals are much more flexible, with ‘speed’ being their main advantage. You can usually get an appointment within a day or two. As for the cost, it all depends on whether you have private health insurance.
With Private Insurance
If you have a policy with major private insurance providers like Adeslas, Sanitas, or Asisa, and your plan covers diagnostic imaging, getting an ultrasound usually only requires a small co-payment (copago), typically between €10 and €20. In fact, some insurance plans have no co-payment (are sin copago), covering the entire [ultrasound price], which allows you to book and go directly—it’s very convenient. Remember to check beforehand if your insurance requires a doctor’s referral, as some companies allow you to book directly with a specialist.
Without Insurance
If you don’t have any insurance and choose to pay out-of-pocket at a private hospital, the cost can be quite significant. The price will vary depending on the city, the hospital’s reputation, and the part of the body being examined. I inquired at a few places and asked friends, and I’ve compiled a general price range for your reference.
| Examination Type | Approx. Price in Madrid/Barcelona | Approx. Price in Other Smaller Cities |
|---|
| Abdominal Ultrasound | €80 - €150 | €60 - €120 |
| Gynecological Ultrasound | €90 - €180 | €70 - €140 |
| Thyroid Ultrasound | €70 - €130 | €60 - €100 |
| Urological Ultrasound | €80 - €160 | €70 - €130 |
The choice really depends on your personal situation and needs. If you’re not in a hurry and want it for free, the public system is the top choice. If you want quick results for peace of mind or have private insurance, a private hospital offers a much better experience. The [ultrasound prices in Spain] are a factor, but the speed and convenience are often worth it. After considering the various [ultrasound prices in Spain], I ended up going to a Quirónsalud hospital using my private insurance. I got an appointment for the very next day. The doctor was very patient, and the report was ready quickly. I hope this information is helpful to you! Feel free to share your own experiences and the costs of examinations in other cities!
