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SIP card

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 10:33am
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Location: Los Montesinos

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Hi, we've recently obtained residencia and registered for health. However, I was told at the chemist that the SIP card (not the temporary card) has a red banner with Generalitat Valencia, could not be used outside of Valencia. The lady wasn't fluent in English, but what she said left me thinking that I wouldn't be covered when travelling outside of Valencia. Am I correct? Help!

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 11:48am

killjoy

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 11:48am

There must be a misunderstanding. Your SIP card, regardless where issued, grants nationwide health assistance by any PUBLIC run health centre (Ambulatorio, Centro de Salud, Hospital) which will also issue subsidized prescriptions. 

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 2:04pm

Movingon

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 2:04pm

I find it hard to believe too, it's taking regional autonomy to ridiculously impractical levels for all parties. 

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 2:11pm

dinnerout

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 2:11pm

Assuming anything in Spain can be perilous but I assumed my SIP card had Valencia on it purely to identify origin.

So, if its correct that it's only valid in Valencia what happens if I fall ill in a different Generalitat?

A) They treat me for free?

B) They treat me but want payment?

C) They leave me to die in the street?

D) Something else....

Answers on the back of a 50 peseta note please.....

Steve 

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 4:50pm

jimtaylor

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 4:50pm

Both the blue and the red SIP cards can be used anywhere in Spain, it's just that the newer red card makes it easier for the doctor or chemist etc to transact anything to do with the card. As you've only recently been assigned cards, you will have received the red ones.

Generalitat Valenciana on the card simply indicates the community that issued it.

Conclusion - the lady at your chemist doesn't know what she's talking about.

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 5:13pm

jimtaylor

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 5:13pm

I agree, Ray. It's just that Valencia decided to be a bit different! Doesn't matter in the slightest, as the format of the new red card is defined by legislation:

https://www.boe.es/buscar/doc.php?id=BOE-A-2013-10326

In theory, we should all have a red card by now, but there's a get-out clause in the law. However, there's nothing to stop you asking nicely at your medical centre.

Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 10:45pm

dinnerout

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Posted: Fri Oct 18, 2019 10:45pm

This post that was quoted has been deleted.

So....regarding your post at 11.31am today? Do you think it was potentially misleading?

Posted: Sat Oct 19, 2019 7:31pm

dinnerout

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Posted: Sat Oct 19, 2019 7:31pm

This post that was quoted has been deleted.

It was a question. Post #5 in the thread.

I think it's important to verify claims and information before posting it as opinion or fact, because it can cause people to be accidentally misled, which in turn can cause unnecessary concern, worry and discomfort.

Best regards 

Steve

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