Health Checks in Spain
I’ve been saying for some time now that I really should get myself a medical given that it’s about ten years since I even so much as saw a doctor. I’ve known in myself I’m in reasonable health, and I’m lucky enough to be one of those people – touch wood – who doesn’t often fall ill. In those rare in cases, perhaps sometimes foolishly, I self-medicate from the pharmacy. The tall and short of it is, being a man I have to be close to death to consult a doctor!
Elle had read recently about the health checks in Spain being offered by the ‘Angels Nursing Group’ who operate here in Almeria and across the south of Spain. Through a series of scheduled clinics (you can find via their website), or in the form of a home visit, the company are offering ‘Wellbeing checks’. A visit to a scheduled clinic costs only €12.50 and a home visit is €25. I’m not sure, but my guess is a private health check such as this in the UK would cost significantly more.
This morning Brian, their man local to us, turned up at the door to see me. I have to say the process went a lot further that I had expected. In my head I was sort of expecting a blood pressure test, a chat about my personal habits, and the use of a stethoscope! I was wrong.
The tests covered blood pressure (yes I know I need some more exercise, to drink less, and to eat less salt :)), some urine tests, blood tests, a blood glucose check, BMI, checking moles, and importantly for a man my age, a prostate exam (optional). Clearly that was the bit I wasn’t looking forward to! However, a friend of mine who has suffered from prostate cancer has been badgering me to get it checked for years. Yes, it’s a bit uncomfortable for a few seconds – no more detail necessary – but I knew deep down it’s absolutely essential.
The whole examination was ‘painless’, thorough, informal and at the same time totally professional. Brian was a really nice guy who put me at ease immediately, has a great ‘bedside manner’, and is a consummate professional. At such a great price it’s hard to see why everyone would not take advantage of this service, whether they have health concerns or not. What is peace of mind really worth?
The good news: Short of some rotten luck somewhere Elle isn’t going to be collecting a life insurance payment any time soon!
Alan, along with Elle, is the owner of Spain Buddy. He was born in the North of England (Lancashire) and travelled extensively before eventually settling in Almería. Alan has 3 sons from the first of his 18 marriages, (Sam, Joe & Ben) who are all now adults. You can read more articles by Alan on his personal blog at AlanGandy.com and see more of his photography on his photography website as well as on Flickr and Instagram.
Also, for less than the price of a cup of coffee each month you can help support Alan’s photography (and get some freebies into the bargain). Click here to visit his Patreon page to find out more.
