Spain takes pride in its universal health care but Europe’s debt crisis has spurred tough budget cuts that will bring sometimes life-saving treatment for illegal immigrants to an abrupt end.
Carmen Maria, a 33-year-old woman from Nicaragua who arrived in the country in 2010, has no legal ID in Spain but has benefitted from free health coverage for her illness nonetheless.
She has been working as a cleaner and despite failing to obtain residency she was able to enjoy the same health care as any legal Spanish citizen.
Ten months ago she was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, a skin disease which can be associated with a tumour and lead to potentially fatal complications.
The Expert’s Thought: Healthcare benefits are employee benefits which offer assistance with healthcare costs. Curbing the Health Care access to Illegal Immigrants would invite poor healthcare systems in the country.
