Choosing a medical centre after an accident in Málaga is a critical decision, as both your physical recovery and the effectiveness of your future claim depend on it. Not all hospitals or clinics operate in the same way when dealing with a road traffic incident.

Here are the keys to choosing wisely:

 

1. The Social Security myth

Many people believe they must mandatorily go to the Hospital Clínico or the Regional. The reality is that you can choose any centre that has a UNESPA agreement, which is the Private Healthcare Assistance Agreement.

 

2. How does the UNESPA Agreement work?

This agreement is a contract between insurance companies and medical centres. Thanks to this:

  • Assistance is free of charge for you: The centre bills your insurance company directly (or the insurance of the vehicle at fault).
  • You have freedom of choice: You can go to any private clinic within the Agreement even if your insurance provider pressures you to go to their own "authorised" clinic.

 

3. Key factors for your choice

To ensure you make the right decision, make sure that the centre you choose meets these requirements:

  1. Dedicated Traffic Unit: They have administrative staff who handle requesting authorisations from your insurance company on your behalf.
  2. On-site diagnostic tests: Avoid small clinics that lack diagnostic testing services or do not have partnerships with centres where these can be performed.
  3. Proximity for rehabilitation: You will need to attend physiotherapy 3 or 4 times a week. Choose a centre that is close to your home or workplace.
  4. Recommendation from your private solicitor: They are well aware of which clinics provide more or less effective treatment for your recovery and, consequently, the positive progress of your case.

 

4. The golden rule: The A&E (Accident & Emergency) Report

Regardless of where you decide to undergo rehabilitation later, you must have an A&E report from the first 72 hours. Without this document, any private clinic will face difficulties in getting the insurance company to authorise your free treatment.

Important: If the centre you choose asks for money upfront, be suspicious; they are not part of the Unespa Agreement.