Private healthcare spending by families has increased by 50% since 2003 and accounts for more than a quarter of total health expenditure in Spain

In Spain, public healthcare spending accounts for the vast majority (3 out of every 4 euros spent), but private spending has maintained a steady upward trend over the last two decades, more consistent than public spending, and now represents 25.9% of total healthcare spending. Between 2003 and 2022, private health spending increased by 50%, reaching €33.6 billion. According to INE’s Family Budget Survey (EPF), Spanish households spent an average of €631 per person on healthcare in 2023. Half of the private healthcare budget went toward therapeutic devices and equipment (such as prescription glasses and hearing aids) and health insurance-related expenses. The other half was spent on pharmaceutical products, medical and hospital services, dental care, and other ancillary services. Private insurance has gained 5 points in household health spending, now accounting for 20.7% of the total.