Andorra has a public-private health care system managed by the Andorran Health Care Service (SAAS). This model combines social security subsidized financing, regulated agreements and co-payments. The country currently has one of the most effective and competent healthcare systems in the world. However, it is very common to have all kinds of questions about it and that is why we inform you about Andorra hospitals below.
How does healthcare work in Andorra?
The health care system in Andorra is distinguished by its efficiency and centralization through the Andorran Social Security Fund (CASS). The Andorran Health Care Service (SAAS) is responsible for the administration of public resources for medical care, which guarantees excellent competence and efficiency.
This system is based on three essential principles: co-responsibility, solidarity and free choice of doctor, offering subsidized dental treatment supported by the prosperous Andorran economy.
On the other hand, Andorran residents, when they need to treat certain very specific pathologies, have at their disposal agreements with Spain and France to guarantee comprehensive care.
What is the cost of health care in Andorra?
In Andorra, the costs associated with medical care vary depending on the individual’s residence. Residents, as beneficiaries of CASS, have pre-agreed rates, while foreigners face higher costs.
For residents, the co-responsibility system involves financial participation through co-payments, with CASS covering 75 % in consultations and visits, 90 % in hospitalizations and 100 % in cases of occupational accidents or childbirth. In situations of non-affiliated services, reimbursements can reach up to 33%, leaving the patient responsible for 66% of the price or more.
Importantly, CASS provides full financing of treatment to those in a precarious economic situation, demonstrating a strong commitment to the principle of solidarity. Although initially, the patient assumes all costs, the reimbursement process is facilitated through forms and receipts submitted to local CASS offices or through a computerized system that simplifies the procedure.
Andorra: how many hospitals does it have?
Andorra has implemented the referring physician concept to improve accessibility, efficiency and coordination in its healthcare system. CASS users must choose a general practitioner or pediatrician as their referring physician, providing personalized care and continuous health supervision. This physician acts as the first point of contact, requesting consultations with specialists and coordinating with other professionals.
For consultations with this physician, the patient pays only 25% of the fee. The preferential pathway facilitates access to specialists, except in emergencies or post-hospitalization services.
On the other hand, it is interesting to clarify a very common question: Does Andorra have several hospitals? The reality is that this country has a population of approximately 70,000 inhabitants and, contrary to what most people think, it has only one hospital. It is equipped with high technology and offers a high quality health service to all its inhabitants.
When will the Andorra hospital be inaugurated?
Inaugurated in 1994 with the purpose of consolidating and improving medical care in Andorra, the Nuestra Señora de Meritxell Hospital merged the Santa Coloma and Virgen de Meritxell clinics. Although the latter still operates as a day hospital or outpatient clinic, the Hospital Nuestra Señora de Meritxell has been under the management of SAAS since 1986.
This hospital is an autonomous parapublic entity, which means that it is publicly owned but governed by private law. It is responsible for managing all healthcare resources and provides an enhanced service to the Andorran population.
What facilities does Nossa Senhora de Meritxell Hospital have?
Nuestra Señora de Meritxell Hospital consists of a day hospital and a main building. It provides services in six essential medical areas, including surgical specialties, pediatrics, gynecology, traumatology and mental health, among others.
Its facilities include a three-level parking lot, an intensive care unit (ICU), an emergency area, a cafeteria-restaurant, a terrace, and toilets, among others. This hospital has a strong sense of privacy, so all rooms are individual and equipped with television, separate sink, closets and comfortable furnishings.
In addition, the hospital is supported by a highly qualified staff that is dedicated to providing personalized and close attention to enhance each patient’s hospital experience.In conclusion, Andorra leads healthcare in Europe with its public-private system managed by the SAAS. It highlights its “referring doctor” system and the Hospital Nuestra Señora de Meritxell that offers services in various medical areas, prioritizing privacy and personalized attention. At MCA Assessors we have a team of expert advisors who will answer any questions you may have before moving to Andorra.
