Update of the common package of benefits of the Spanish National Health System

In April 2019, the Ministry of Health, Consumption and Social Welfare announced the update of the common package of benefits of the Spanish national health system (NHS) with the inclusion of cervical cancer screening, nipple and areola micropigmentation and update of orthoprosthesis catalog. 

The new measures offer new benefits aimed primarily at children, women, and people with disabilities. The order will come into force on July 1, 2019, and grants a period of six months to be fully implemented.  The implementation of the new services will result in an estimated saving for the NHS of €20.5 million per year due to the positive impact of screening in the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer screening:

The screening will be done to 25-65 years old women. For women aged 25-34 years through cytology, every three years, and for women aged 35-65 years through the determination of high-risk human papillomavirus. In this case, if the test is negative, the test will be repeated 5 years later. If it is positive, cytology will be performed.

Nipple and areola micropigmentation after breast cancer:

Regarding mastectomized women, nipple and areola micropigmentation are considered part of breast reconstruction in order to guarantee that this benefit is offered homogeneously throughout the Spanish NHS.

Eye reader to interact with computers in people with severe motor disability

An eye reader or other similar communication system is to be provided to patients with severe neuromotor disorders with the involvement of both upper limbs and the inability to communicate orally or in writing. This is intended to grant greater autonomy and quality of life to these patients.

Update of orthoprosthesis catalog:

The new order details and updates the common catalog of orthoprosthetic provision in relation to prostheses other than those of the upper and lower members. In total, 58 types of products are included. Among them, breast prostheses and facial restoration, hearing aids, as well as replacements of external components of surgical implants.

In addition, the age of funding for hearing aids is increased, from the current 16 years old, to the 26 years, gradually.

See the press release by the Ministry of Health, Consumption and Social Welfare here

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