How care is organised
Public primary care runs from the health centres in Old Town and Port. Serious emergencies, surgery and maternity go to Hospital de Dénia. Many locals also keep a private policy for faster diagnostics or specific specialists.
This guide is part of our Moving to Jávea section, covering essential day-to-day services for year-round residents. For a wider overview of areas and local living, see our main property in Jávea hub.
Your local centres
- Old Town Health Centre — open 24 hours for urgent GP-level issues.
- Port Health Centre — weekday daytime for routine care if this is your assigned centre.
- Hospital de Dénia — A&E, imaging, surgery, maternity, specialist clinics.
SIP card: what it is and how to get it
Your SIP is the health card for the Valencian Community.
Bring
- NIE or TIE and passport
- Padrón certificate from Town Hall
- Proof of entitlement to public healthcare such as employment and Social Security, S1 if applicable, or another recognised route
Steps
- Register on the padron at the Town Hall.
- Gather your entitlement proof.
- Go to your assigned health centre. They will issue or activate your SIP and assign a GP and paediatrics.
Appointments
Once you have your SIP, set up online or phone booking for GP, nurse and paediatrics. Save 112 and the health centre numbers in your phone.
Private healthcare (optional)
Useful for faster tests, English-speaking specialists and wider choice. You can use public and private in parallel.
Pharmacies and out of hours
Most pharmacies keep extended weekday hours and a rota for nights and weekends. The Old Town Health Centre manages out-of-hours GP care. Use 112 for emergencies.
New arrivals on visas
Most routes start with private insurance while your residence paperwork completes. Once resident and registered, many families move into public care when eligible. Keep copies of all documents and renewals handy.
One-week setup plan
Day 1–2: Padrón → SIP activation → set up online access.
Day 3: Save 112 and local numbers. Note nearest pharmacy.
Day 4: If using private cover, download the app and check the approved clinics list.
Day 5–7: Test travel time to the Old Town centre and Hospital de Dénia. Note parking and entrances.
Quick checklist
- Padrón certificate
- NIE/TIE + passports
- Proof of entitlement (work & Social Security, S1, etc.)
- SIP activated and GP/paediatrics assigned
- Online booking set up
- 112 and key contacts saved
FAQs
Where do I go at 23:00 with a high fever?
Old Town Health Centre handles urgent care. For serious cases or trauma, go to Hospital de Dénia A&E. Call 112 in emergencies.
Do I need private insurance if I have SIP?
Not required. Many people keep both for speed and choice.
Will they speak English?
Often, but not guaranteed. Bring ID and any notes in Spanish. Private clinics are more likely to offer English.
See also: Long-Term Renting in Jávea • Cost of Living in Jávea • Schools in and around Jávea
