Health Minister Mónica García announced that eyeglasses and contact lenses will be included in the benefits covered by the Social Security system. This is a historic move aimed at strengthening primary care and meeting the visual health needs of people across Spain.
“We will address this decisively in partnership with the Ministry of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs, and we will also incorporate Early Intervention services,” García stated.
This support will bring relief to many families who previously paid out of pocket for glasses and lenses. According to the Vision White Paper, in 2023 seven out of ten people in the country rely on glasses or contact lenses in their daily routines.
Glasses and Contact Lenses Free
The measure will save money for numerous households and ensure access to vision care for the underprivileged. Myopia is one of the most common eye problems among young people. The sector highlighted that more than half of young adults and university students require vision correction.
Mónica García emphasized the need to prioritize visual health and primary care. “There must be more than just a disease-focused approach; this should be an active commitment to prevention,” the health minister noted.
Officials pointed out that this initiative will benefit a broad segment of Spaniards with eye problems. Eyewear and lenses will be included in Social Security benefits, reducing the financial burden on families that previously covered these expenses. The plan aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen primary care and enhance overall eye health services.
The government is increasingly focusing on preventive eye care and accessible vision services as part of a broader health strategy. This approach seeks to reduce preventable visual impairment and ensure timely treatment for those in need. It also highlights the importance of early detection and ongoing eye health management as a core component of public health policy.
As part of the policy framework, the plan may also consider broader social and health considerations, including how vision health intersects with education and daily wellbeing. The emphasis is on making vision care a standard, funded service that supports families and communities across the country.
With this proposal, the administration signals its intent to implement the changes within the current legislative period. The exact timeline remains to be confirmed, but the aim is to roll out the reforms in a timely manner following final approvals.
People across Spain can anticipate a significant improvement in access to corrective eyewear and related vision services. By reducing out-of-pocket costs, the measure stands to improve daily life for millions who rely on glasses or contact lenses, and it reinforces a broader commitment to preventive health and primary care. In the coming months, further details on coverage scope, eligibility, and implementation will be clarified by official channels and published guidance. This development marks a notable shift in how eye health is funded and managed within the national healthcare system, with the potential to serve as a benchmark for other countries seeking to expand preventive services and reduce financial barriers to vision care.