How to Register with a GP in Spain

Registering with a GP in Spain (médico de cabecera) is your gateway to accessing public healthcare. This guide explains the complete process.

Understanding the Spanish GP System

In Spain, your GP (general practitioner) is called a médico de cabecera or médico de familia. They are:

• Your first point of contact for health issues
• Based at your local Centro de Salud (health center)
• Required to refer you to specialists
• Assigned based on your registered address

Finding Your Local Health Center

To find your local health center:

• Check your regional health service website:
  • Madrid: SERMAS
  • Catalonia: CatSalut
  • Valencia: Conselleria de Sanitat
  • Andalusia: SAS
• Use the health center locator on regional websites
• Ask at your town hall (Ayuntamiento)
• Call the health information line: 112 (emergency) or regional health line

You must register at the health center corresponding to your Empadronamiento address.

Required Documents for Registration

To register with a GP, bring:

• NIE or passport
• Empadronamiento certificate (proof of address registration)
• Social Security number or proof of healthcare coverage:
  • Employment contract showing Social Security
  • Pensioner certificate
  • Unemployment registration
  • Private insurance (if not eligible for public)
• Completed registration form (provided at health center)

Registration Process Step-by-Step

1. Visit your local health center during office hours (usually 8am-3pm)
2. Go to reception/administration (Admisión)
3. Request registration: "Quiero darme de alta" (I want to register)
4. Submit your documents
5. Fill out the registration form
6. Choose your GP from available doctors (or be assigned one)
7. Receive temporary health card number
8. Wait for physical health card (2-4 weeks by mail)

No appointment needed for registration - it's a walk-in process.

Getting Your Health Card

Your health card (tarjeta sanitaria):

• Arrives by mail within 2-4 weeks
• Contains your health ID number (CIP)
• Shows your assigned GP and health center
• Valid throughout Spain
• Must be presented at all medical appointments

You can use your temporary number while waiting for the physical card.

Making GP Appointments

To book a GP appointment:

• Online: Through regional health app or website
• Phone: Call your health center directly
• In person: Visit the health center
• Walk-in: Some centers have same-day slots

Appointment types:

• Routine appointments: Book 1-7 days in advance
• Urgent appointments: Same-day slots available
• Emergency: Go to hospital emergency (Urgencias) or call 112