Caring for a Sore Throat in Bilbao

A Tourist’s Guide to Medical Care in Bilbao

Online Consultations:

Great for minor but urgent issues that don’t need a physical exam, such as sore throat or related symptoms.

With Doctorsa you can connect with an English-speaking doctor via video call in just a few minutes, get medical advice and, if appropriate, receive an e-prescription that can be used at any pharmacy. No need to worry about office hours or holidays. Clear and upfront pricing: consultations start at €20, so tourists in Bilbao needing treatment for sore throat can access affordable healthcare without surprises. Insurances accepted but not required.

Learn more about sore throat treatment online.

Hospitals in Bilbao

For serious, potentially life-threatening issues that require immediate, specialized treatment, like breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, or head injuries. Non-urgent visits use up resources needed for emergency patients. ERs are for serious, life-threatening issues. Going there for something like sore throat adds to doctors’ workload and may take time away from those in critical need.

Important: The information provided here about hospitals is for general reference only. We recommend verifying current details, such as contact information, services, and hours of operation, before visiting. Please reach out directly to the hospital or consult their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Hospitals with Emergency Rooms in Bilbao

Hospital Universitario de Basurto
Address: Montevideo 5, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
Access: Walk-in or call the emergency number 112 for immediate assistance.

Hospital Universitario Cruces
Address: Plaza Cruces 12, 48903 Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
Access: Walk-in or contact the emergency services by calling 112.

Hospital de Galdakao-Usansolo
Address: Barrio Labeaga Galdakao, 48960 Galdakao, Bizkaia, Spain
Access: Patients can arrive at the ER directly, or they can call the emergency number 112 for assistance.

Walk-in clinics

Best for minor conditions needing same-day, in-person specialist attention—like X-rays for sprains or cuts that may need stitches, injections, advanced diagnostics, or other invasive procedures.

Pharmacies in Bilbao, Spain

In Bilbao, pharmacies are well-known and easily identifiable by their distinctive green cross sign, which is often illuminated and placed prominently outside the store. These establishments are called “farmacias” and provide a range of medicinal and health products. Pharmacies in Bilbao are typically open during regular business hours, with some offering 24-hour service. Pharmacies play a crucial role in the community, offering not only medications but also health advice and consultations.

Antibiotic Policy in Spain

In Spain, including Bilbao, pharmacists are not allowed to sell antibiotics over the counter. Antibiotics are prescription-only medications, meaning they require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. This policy is in place to combat antibiotic resistance and ensure the appropriate use of these medications.

Emergency Number for Bilbao

The emergency telephone number for Bilbao, and indeed the entire country of Spain, is 112. This is a universal emergency number that connects you with police, fire, and medical services. It is accessible from any phone, free of charge, and available 24 hours a day.

When calling 112, it is important to clearly state the nature of the emergency, your location, and any other pertinent details that could assist in providing a timely response. The operators can assist in multiple languages, ensuring that language barriers do not impede access to emergency services.

Please remember that the 112 emergency number is specifically for life-threatening situations. For urgent but non-life-threatening medical issues, consider using telehealth services like Doctorsa, which can provide advice and assistance without tying up emergency resources.