Frequently Asked Questions for International Patients
About Ribera Health Group
What is Ribera Health Group and why should I choose it?
Ribera is the second-largest hospital group in Spain, with 26 years of experience as a provider of public and private medical services. We operate in 7 countries across 3 continents, with a network of 15 hospitals, 14 primary care centers, and over 60 clinics, as well as other projects such as a laboratory division, diagnostic imaging centers, a technology company, a purchasing center, a consulting firm, a university school of nursing, and a foundation for research and health promotion.
Ribera is a healthcare group committed to patients, working to improve their health and well-being. With over 9,000 professionals and years of experience collaborating with public and private organizations, we are recognized as a responsible healthcare model that is used as a case study at universities and business schools such as Berkeley and Harvard Business School.
Why do patients from all over the world travel to our hospitals?
Ribera is a guarantee of healthcare excellence and best practices in patient care and safety. Several of our centers are accredited by the Joint Commission International, one of the most demanding healthcare accreditations in the world. We work with top professionals and operate highly equipped healthcare centers with modern facilities, ensuring support for patients and their families throughout the entire process, addressing all their needs.
How does Ribera Health Group ensure patient privacy and confidentiality?
At Ribera, we are committed to the privacy of our patients. Our centers strictly comply with data protection regulations. Among other measures, we implement the following:
• We inform our patients about what data we are processing, how the data will be processed, and for what purposes the data will be used.
• We use environments endorsed by IT experts to store and process our patients’ information.
• We implement cutting-edge IT systems to prevent unauthorized access to information by third parties.
• We have data protection policies and procedures in place that not only protect patients’ data but also ensure respect for and compliance with the rights of individuals regarding the processing of their data.
Before Your Visit
Do I need diagnostics before travelling?
We recommend bringing recent medical reports and diagnostic tests related to your condition. This allows us to better assess your case and prepare an appropriate treatment plan. If you do not have these tests, don’t worry – our medical team will conduct all the necessary tests during your stay.
How do I schedule an appointment with Ribera Health Group?
If you are a patient from outside Spain and are interested in scheduling an in-person consultation, a medical treatment/surgery, or an online second opinion, you must complete the form on our contact us page Our team will respond within 24-48 business hours.
What is a treatment plan and how do I get one?
A treatment plan is a personalized document that includes:
- Diagnosis
- Recommended treatment
- Estimated duration
- Approximate costs
You will receive it after the initial evaluation of your case. Tell us about your case here and receive a treatment plan.
Can I speak with someone to get more information and what languages do you work with?
Yes, you can contact us here. We work in the following languages:
- Spanish
- English
- French
- Russian
- German
What medical documents should I prepare before traveling?
We recommend bringing your medical history, current medications list, recent diagnostic tests, and a valid passport. Our international patient coordinator will guide you through the complete documentation process.
Can Ribera Health Group assist with a second medical opinion?
Yes, tell us about your case by filling out this form in order to request for a second medical opinion. Our team will assess your case and will get back to you as soon as possible.
How far in advance should I plan my medical trip?
Depending on the medical need, the patient’s history, and the available documentation, the patient may be able to travel within hours of the treatment request. Additionally, the treatment plan will include recommended timelines for organizing the medical trip.
Do I need a medical insurance policy?
You can come for a treatment at Ribera without medical insurance and pay for 100% of the treatment cost yourself. If you have international medical insurance, in some cases, your treatment may be fully or partially covered by the insurance company.
Do you offer online consultation?
Yes, we offer comprehensive online consultation services to facilitate your initial medical assessment and treatment planning.
During Your Visit
Do you have shuttle service?
Yes, if you require it, we have drivers with extensive experience with international patients available.
Do you provide crutches or a walker in case of orthopedic surgery?
Yes, we provide complimentary mobility assistance devices for patients undergoing orthopedic procedures. It is important that you contact the airport before your trip if you require assistance due to reduced mobility.
If I have any food allergies or intolerances, do they take this into account?
Absolutely. Patient safety and comfort are our top priorities. Our nutrition and medical teams follow a comprehensive protocol to manage dietary restrictions.
How do you ensure the quality and safety of medical procedures?
Our medical team is certified by national standards, and we use state-of-the-art technology and follow strict medical protocols to guarantee patient safety.
Can my family or companion stay with me during treatment?
Yes, we allow companions during most non-surgical procedures, as surgical processes are subject to specific universal standards of asepsis and sterility. The rooms are private, allowing a family member or companion to stay overnight with you.
What support services are available for international patients?
We offer:
· Multilingual personal coordinator
· Documentation management
· Support with accommodation and transportation
· Assistance with insurance procedures
Post-Treatment Care
Is it possible to carry out rehabilitation in your centers?
Yes, we can easily adjust the rehabilitation sessions based on your journey and therapeutic needs.
What follow-up services are available after my treatment?
We provide:
- Follow-up consultations in person or via online consultation
- A detailed post-treatment plan
- Direct communication with your local doctor.
Will Ribera Health Group provide my medical records after treatment?
Yes, we provide a complete report in Spanish and English including diagnosis, treatment and recommendations.
How can I stay in touch with my doctor after I return home?
We offer online consultation follow-up and email communication with your medical team.
Financial and Insurance Information
What international insurance plans does Ribera Health Group accept?
We work with leading international insurance companies listed on our website. Please check our insurance companies page for more information.
How can I estimate the cost of my treatment?
We provide a detailed quote after the initial evaluation. Tell us about your case and we will send a treatment plant with the estimated cost.
What payment methods are accepted?
Credit card, bank transfer, and cash.
Are payment plans available for international patients?
Yes, we offer flexible payment options for major treatments.
Travel and Accommodation
Which airports are closest to Ribera hospitals?
The following are the closest airports to the Ribera hospitals and clinics in Spain:
- Alicante: Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC)
- Valencia: Valencia Airport (VLC)
- Madrid: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD)
- Vigo: Vigo Airport (VGO)
- A Coruña: A Coruña Airport (LCG)
- Asturias (Covadonga): Asturias Airport (OVD)
- Murcia: Región de Murcia International Airport (RMU)
- Zaragoza: Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ)
Does Ribera Health Group help with accommodation arrangements?
Yes, we have agreements with hotels near our hospitals and we can handle reservations for you.
Are there transportation services available from the airport to the hospital?
Yes, we can arrange transfers from airports and hotels to our centers.
Do you offer packages that include the treatment and accommodation?
Yes, we offer packages that include treatment, accommodation, and transfers. Tell us about your case and we will send you a treatment plan with the available packages for your trip.
Can I combine my medical visit with a tourism experience in Spain?
Yes, we can recommend tourist activities compatible with your treatment.
Language and Communication
Do Ribera hospitals have staff who speak my language?
Yes, we have multilingual staff and also offer a telephone interpretation service available 24/7, 365 days a year, with over 70 languages available.
Is interpretation or translation assistance available?
Yes, we provide professional interpreters if the patient makes a reservation.
How will I communicate with my doctor if I don’t speak Spanish?
Our international staff ensures communication in your language.
Have a question?
We would like to hear from you. Leave us your details and any questions you might have and we will get back to you as soon as possible.