What to do in case of an emergency in Costa del Sol
Published June 21 2023
We understand you want to be prepared for every possible scenario, so don’t worry! Here is everything that you need to know in case of any emergency.
In case your child gets sick
- If you have a European Health Card, you can access public hospitals and get medical attention for free. If you don’t, there are some private options and the cost for a doctor visit can go from 20€ to 50€ depending on the clinic. If you want the doctor to go to your accommodation, the option is possible but the price is higher.
- If it is something minor, you can head to the nearest pharmacy. They will most likely speak English. Be careful and don’t go to a “Parafarmacia” as this is an herbal pharmacy, what you are looking for is a “Farmacia”.
- If you don’t have any transport to head to the hospital, you can call an ambulance (the number is 112). They have English translators available.
For private hospitals, two good options are Hospital Ochoa Marbella, Private Hospital Estepona – Cenyt Hospital and Hospital QuironSalud. For public, any option is good, you have Servicio Andaluz de Salud, The Health Center Albarizas, Hospital Costa del Sol, etc.
Things you should know:
- Make sure to keep the receipts for any medical cost you incur including prescriptions, taxis and medical bills. You may be able to claim everything back through your travel insurance.
- If you go to a hospital, take with you your passport, insurance details and credit cards.
- Consulates are always available over the phone for any additional advice you may need.
What do I do if my kid has a tooth-related emergency?
There are many private dentist clinics all around the city. Vitaldent or Clínica Dental San Pedro are two good ones with a nice service. Some public hospitals also cover teeth-related emergencies, but not all. In case of a toothache, private clinics are the safest choice.
Police reports in Costa del Sol
In case you have something stolen or you need to report any type of crime, you can do so over the phone in English. Have your passport prepared as they may ask for it, they will also need a reference number from you. You have 72 hours to go to any police station and report the robbery (or any other crime).
Important Emergency numbers
- 112 is the Spanish emergency number for any type of emergency, ambulance service as well.
- 952 86 14 00 is the number of Hospital Ochoa Marbella.
- 952 80 81 00 is the number of Private Hospital Estepona – Cenyt Hospital.
- 952 77 42 00 is the number of Hospital QuironSalud.