FAQ
This FAQ page for Dr. Gilete Spine Center in Barcelona explains the advantages of choosing Barcelona as a healthcare destination, outlines the process for in-person and remote consultations, details the costs and logistics of spine surgery, describes pre- and post-operative guidelines, safety measures and payment procedures, and facilita los datos de contacto para solicitar una evaluación o más información. drgilete.com
Why Barcelona?
Being based in Barcelona offers our patients many advantages. The city is a pioneer in healthcare, hosting 152 private hospitals and over 19 000 beds. Renowned spine surgeons work here, and Catalonia is a leading Bio-Region for biotechnology, biomedicine and medical technology.
Surgery abroad – how do I know if it is the right choice for me?
There are many benefits to seeking treatment abroad. Patients travel overseas for high-quality healthcare, affordability, easier access to specialized care and shorter waiting times.
I have read all the information on your website – what should I do now?
Simply fill in the “Contact Us” form or call us at +34 93 220 28 09. We will reply with a free quote, schedule a consultation or provide any further information you need.
When will you respond to my enquiry?
We understand health concerns are urgent, so we endeavour to respond within 24 hours.
I am interested in coming to Dr. Gilete Spine Center for my surgery, how much will it cost?
Treatment cost is calculated individually, depending on complexity and special requirements. Generally our prices are up to 50 % lower than in the USA, with equal or superior standards of care.
Please complete the “Contact Us” form; after your initial consultation with Dr. Gilete we will send a preliminary quote. We aim to reply within 24 hours.
How quickly can you organize the treatment?
We provide preliminary quotes as soon as possible. Depending on diagnosis complexity, surgery is usually scheduled within three months or sooner.
Can diagnostic and other preoperative tests be made at the hospitals where Dr. Gilete performs surgeries?
Yes. We can organise a complete diagnostic program, including imaging and tests. Please use the “Contact Us” form for details.
Will it be possible to speak to the surgeon before I book my surgery?
Of course—either in person or via video conference. Feel free to ask as many questions as you like. Our team speaks English and Spanish; let us know if you need another language.
Can you help with organising the trip (flight, hotel booking, airport pick-up or leisure programme)?
Travel arrangements are the patient’s responsibility. Please contact us via the form for more information.
What is included in your quote?
Our final quote normally covers:
- Hospital stay (duration depends on treatment complexity)
- Preoperative evaluation and testing
- Anesthesiology and surgery
- Implants (if used)
- Postoperative CT and imaging tests
- Post-operative care at the hospital
- Postoperative consultation after discharge
- Medication during your stay
How long will I need to stay in Barcelona? When can I travel after the operation?
We recommend arriving a few days before surgery to recover from long-haul flights. Recuperation time depends on the procedure and your health status. We’ll send a health questionnaire prior to surgery and advise you on fitness to fly. After the operation, rest is essential before extensive travel.
I would like someone to accompany me. Can he/she stay at the hospital with me?
Yes — a spare bed is provided in your hospital room for your convenience.
When I arrive can I go straight to the hospital or do I have to stay in the hotel?
This depends on your physical condition (e.g. if you are bedbound). Please contact us with your requirements.
How can I get to the hospital?
Handicapped-adapted taxis are available in Barcelona. Contact us for details.
Do doctors and assistants speak English at the clinic?
Our medical team includes native English speakers, and translators can be arranged if needed.
Is there any waiting time from the day I first arrive at the hospital?
No — once a date is agreed, you receive treatment and care as planned.
What should or shouldn’t I do prior to surgery?
Based on your health questionnaire, we’ll provide specific recommendations. In general, avoid aspirin or any anticoagulant (e.g., warfarin, acenocoumarol, phenprocoumon) two weeks before surgery. You will receive a comprehensive pre-travel checklist.
What will I need to bring with me?
Bring your most recent medical documents related to your condition and your passport.
What if I need more pain relief?
The hospital’s medical team ensures you receive all necessary pain relief.
Who will be looking after me in the hospital?
A 24-hour medical team provides continuous care throughout your stay.
What are the visiting hours at the hospital?
You can have visitors at any time.
How long will I be in the hospital for?
Duration depends on your specific treatment. Your surgeon will advise you.
When will I be able to fly home? Do I need to worry about travelling after surgery?
Check our Fitness to Fly section for recommendations on post-operative air travel to minimize complications.
What about safety measures?
Dr. Gilete Spine Center operates in completely safe areas. We recommend consulting the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) for up-to-date travel safety information.
What about outbreaks?
Visit HealthMap (healthmap.org) for the latest outbreak updates.
How and when do I pay?
After you agree to the preliminary quote, we send a customised amended quote including all details. Please contact us if you have questions.
Do you have experience of working with insurance plans from the United States?
We do not work with insurance, public or private. Promohealth does not engage in reimbursement processes.
What information do I need to provide?
After our initial response, we require your most recent medical information.
I am worried about MRSA infections. What is the average hospital infection/mortality rate?
In Western hospitals, rates vary by treatment complexity. In our institutions MRSA is not a major concern, but you can consult OECD statistics for official figures.
How is Dr. Gilete Spine Center regulated?
Our surgeons operate in prestigious, world-renowned hospitals accredited by JCI and ISO 9001, ensuring compliance with the highest professional quality standards.
European S2 form
Administrative and Clinical Clarifications
We are a fully private clinic, and the hospital where we carry out our clinical activity it’s also private. S2 European form only apply to public hospitals, not to private hospital. For this reason, we are unable to accept or process its submission (European S2 form).
Questions or Need Assistance?
If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact us through our contact form
info@drgilete.com | +34 93 220 28 09
Or if you’re ready to start, request an evaluation here. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.