7 mistakes when purchasing health insurance (and how to avoid them in 2026)

this article, we explain the 7 most common mistakes when purchasing health insurance in Spain and, most importantly, how to avoid them with a professional and well-advised approach.

1. Not adapting the insurance to your real needs

One of the most frequent mistakes is choosing a generic policy without first analyzing your personal situation.

Each person has different needs: it is not the same for a young person who barely goes to the doctor as it is for a family with children or someone who requires frequent medical follow-up.

✔️ How to avoid it:

Analyze how often you use healthcare services

Take into account the specialties you may need

Consider whether you need services such as physiotherapy, psychology, or pediatrics

A specialized advisor can help you identify these needs and prevent you from paying for coverage you will not use… or missing the important ones.

2. Choosing between copayment or no copayment without fully understanding it

The debate between insurance with a copayment or without a copayment is key… and it is often decided based only on the monthly price.

The problem appears later.

✔️ What you should consider:

If you rarely go to the doctor → a copayment may be a good option

If you go frequently → it can end up being more expensive in the long run

Small payments add up more than it seems

👉 The key is not to pay less per month, but to pay less overall per year.

3. Not reviewing the conditions and exclusions

The well-known “fine print” is where the truly important information is found.

Many users realize too late that certain treatments or tests are not covered.

✔️ How to avoid it:

Review specific exclusions

Check limits on tests or specialties

Always ask before purchasing

A good advisor translates these technical terms into clear language, avoiding future surprises.

4. Not understanding waiting periods

The waiting period is the time you must wait before accessing certain services (surgeries, hospitalization, etc.).

Ignoring this can lead to very frustrating situations.

✔️ Key aspects:

Not all services have the same waiting period

It can affect important tests or procedures

In some cases, it can be removed or reduced

👉 This is one of the areas where professional advice provides the most value.

5. Not properly comparing prices and coverage

Comparing only the price is a mistake.

The cost of insurance depends on factors such as:

Age

Geographical area (for example, Alicante)

Level of coverage

✔️ What you should really compare:

Medical network

Access to specialists

Included hospitals

Digital services

A cheaper insurance plan can end up being expensive if it does not cover what you need.

6. Ignoring digital services and additional coverage

Nowadays, a good health insurance plan goes far beyond in-person consultations.

Services such as telemedicine or digital appointment management make a big difference.

✔️ What to evaluate:

Online medical consultations

Health apps

Treatment monitoring

Additional services (dental, wellness, etc.)

Companies like Sanitas have strongly invested in these types of solutions, making care faster and more convenient.

7. Purchasing without professional advice

This is probably the most important mistake.

Taking out health insurance without professional help can lead to:

Choosing an unsuitable policy

Overpaying

Not understanding what you are actually purchasing

✔️ The difference of being well advised

A specialized advisor:

Analyzes your specific case

Explains options clearly

Supports you before, during, and after purchasing

👉 It’s not just about taking out insurance, but about making an informed decision.

Conclusion: choosing well today avoids problems tomorrow

Taking out health insurance should not be based solely on price or on a quick decision.

Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to:

Save money

Have the right coverage

Access better medical care

If you are considering taking out health insurance in Alicante, the most advisable option is to rely on close and professional advice. A specialized team can help you compare options and find the policy that truly suits you, with no obligation and full transparency.

Final tip

Before making a decision, consult professionals who know the sector and your area well. Good advice makes the difference between having insurance… and having the right insurance.