What matters most when choosing a policy?

Three things: whether there are copays, whether there are waiting periods, and what the cover actually includes. For a visa, add the certificate for the consulate. Price matters, but not at the expense of these points.

What is a waiting period (carencia)?

It is the time from taking out the policy after which certain services begin — usually the complex ones (birth, surgery, prosthetics). Basic services usually have none. It is worth checking waiting periods in advance.

Can I switch insurer without losing seniority?

Often yes: when switching, your seniority on waiting periods may be recognised so you do not serve them again. The terms depend on the insurer, so it is worth checking before switching.

How to Choose Health Insurance in Spain: A Checklist for Tenerife

There are many policies on the market and, at first glance, they look alike. But the difference is in the details — the ones that show up at the worst moment. Let us go through a simple checklist: what to look at when choosing insurance in Spain and how to switch insurer without losing out.

What to look at first

Copays. Whether you pay for each appointment. Policies without copays are more convenient and mandatory for visas.
Waiting periods (carencias). When complex services begin (birth, surgery, prosthetics).
Cover. Which specialists, diagnostics and hospitalisation are included.
Clinics. Whether convenient clinics and doctors are available in Tenerife.
Language. Whether there are doctors who speak your language.
Certificate. For a visa, the document for the consulate with the correct wording is mandatory.

Common traps

Looking only at price. A cheap policy with copays and long waiting periods can cost more in a real situation.
Not reading the waiting periods. Especially important for those planning a birth or an operation.
Choosing the wrong policy for a visa. The consulate will not accept a travel or copay policy.

Tip: define your situation first — visa, family, health plans — and choose the policy around it. There is no universal “best” policy.

How to switch insurer

Switching insurer is normal if your current policy does not suit you. Key points:

Seniority on waiting periods. It can often be carried over so you do not serve the carencias again — check this in advance.
Timing. Policies have cancellation terms and renewal dates — worth reviewing.
Continuity. Arrange the new policy so there is no gap in cover, especially if you need it for a visa.

How much it costs

The final price depends on age, family and cover, so it is calculated individually. The estimate is free and commits you to nothing — you can compare options for your situation in advance.

Want to choose a policy for your situation or work out whether to switch your current one? Just ask in the chat — we will help you compare and prepare a free estimate with a manager.