IB-Salut defends medical billing processes for tourists

IB-Salut management has addressed concerns regarding the collection of medical fees from tourists, stating that the majority of invoices are successfully recovered. Yago Gómez, the director of management at IB-Salut, denied that difficulties in billing and collecting payments for healthcare services provided to tourists represent a widespread problem within the public health system.

Gómez explained that a large volume of assistance provided to foreign citizens involves individuals using the European Health Insurance Card, which allows expenses to be reclaimed from the health systems of their home countries. Issues primarily arise when patients lack documentation and enter the system as private individuals. In such cases, IB-Salut utilizes a specialized company to pursue outstanding debts.

Furthermore, Gómez emphasized that medical professionals are not responsible for the billing process, which is handled by administrative admission staff. He also maintained that a lack of coverage or documentation does not prevent care, asserting that patient autonomy ensures individuals are treated regardless of their ability to pay at the point of service.