The best hospitals in Spain are increasingly becoming a reference point for patients seeking high-quality medical care in Europe. Forbes rankings by medical specialty offer a practical way to assess the country’s healthcare system, focusing on clinical expertise, technological development, and the ability to manage highly complex medical cases.
Barcelona holds a particularly prominent position in these rankings. Over recent years, the city has developed one of the most advanced medical ecosystems not only in Spain, but across Europe. In this article, we explore why Spanish hospitals regularly appear in Forbes rankings, which medical specialties receive the highest recognition, and the role played by the Barcelona International Hospitals network.
How Forbes healthcare rankings are developed
The Forbes ranking of hospitals in Spain is not designed as a promotional list, but as an analytical tool. Its purpose is to highlight medical centres that consistently deliver strong results within specific medical specialties.
The evaluation takes into account factors such as:
- clinical reputation and professional experience of medical teams
- ability to manage complex and non-standard cases
- level of medical technology and infrastructure
- multidisciplinary organisation of care
- contribution to the advancement of modern medicine
For this reason, the Forbes hospital list in Spain is often used by patients as a reliable reference when choosing a medical centre, especially for high-complexity treatments or long-term care.
This overview also takes into account the results published in the Forbes ranking titled “Lista Forbes | Los mejores hospitales por especialidades en España”.
Spain as a destination for high-complexity medicine
In recent years, Spain has strengthened its position as one of Europe’s leading countries in healthcare. Alongside a well-established public health system, private medical centres play a key role, particularly in highly specialised and technology-driven care.
Top-tier private hospitals in Spain actively invest in advanced diagnostics, surgical innovation, digital health solutions, and multidisciplinary clinical models. This combination makes medical treatment in Spain attractive not only to local patients, but also to people from other countries.
Medical tourism and international patients
Medical tourism in Spain continues to grow due to a combination of factors:
- a high standard of medical care
- transparent treatment processes
- multidisciplinary clinical approaches
- extensive experience working with international patients
Spain and Barcelona in particular has become a destination of choice for patients seeking cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, neurorehabilitation, and treatment for chronic or rare conditions.
Why Barcelona stands out in Forbes rankings
When discussing the best hospitals in Spain by medical specialty, Barcelona is mentioned especially often. This is not due to isolated institutions, but to a comprehensive healthcare model developed across the city.
Barcelona brings together:
- university and private hospitals
- scientific and research centres
- multidisciplinary clinical teams
- extensive experience treating patients from around the world
This structure allows care to be organised as a coordinated process, which is particularly important for complex diagnoses requiring collaboration between multiple specialists.
Barcelona hospitals recognised in the Forbes ranking
In the latest Forbes ranking focused on medical specialties, Barcelona once again confirmed its status as one of Spain’s leading medical hubs. The presence of several hospitals linked to the Barcelona International Hospitals network reflects the stability and maturity of the city’s healthcare model.
The Forbes ranking highlights medical centres capable of delivering high-complexity care, supported by experienced professionals, advanced technology, and multidisciplinary clinical organisation.
Among the recognised hospitals are:
Centro Médico Teknon – Grupo Quirónsalud
Recognised for its high level of care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and other specialties requiring advanced diagnostics, surgery, and coordinated specialist teams.
Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona
Acknowledged for its comprehensive approach to treatment, continuous technological development, and experience managing patients with complex and multi-profile medical needs.
Hospital Universitari Dexeus
Noted for its strength in orthopaedics, traumatology, and women’s health, where clinical expertise is combined with personalised care and interdisciplinary collaboration.
In addition, specialised units from other BIH partner institutions contribute to Barcelona’s strong presence in national rankings across specific medical fields.
Medical specialties highlighted in Forbes rankings
Forbes evaluates hospitals based on specific medical specialties rather than overall size or volume, allowing patients to identify centres with proven expertise.
Cardiology
Cardiology centres in Barcelona are known for integrating diagnostics, interventional procedures, and surgical treatment, enabling a seamless patient journey within a single medical environment.
Oncology
Oncological care in Spain is based on multidisciplinary teams, precise diagnostics, and personalised treatment strategies, particularly for complex cases.
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Barcelona has a long-standing reputation for excellence in musculoskeletal surgery and rehabilitation, including complex orthopaedic and post-traumatic conditions.
Women’s health
Gynaecology, obstetrics, and reproductive medicine are among the specialties where Spanish hospitals consistently receive high recognition for quality and comprehensive care.
The role of Barcelona International Hospitals
Barcelona International Hospitals brings together the city’s leading medical centres within a single network, helping patients navigate a complex healthcare landscape.
For international patients in particular, BIH provides:
- access to trusted and accredited medical centres
- clarity regarding each hospital’s areas of expertise
- coordination between specialists and institutions
- multilingual support throughout the care process
BIH does not replace hospitals; instead, it helps patients identify the most appropriate medical pathway based on their diagnosis and individual needs.
Best hospitals in Spain: a consolidated medical ecosystem
The best hospitals in Spain recognised in Forbes rankings confirm the country’s high standard of healthcare. Barcelona stands out not because of individual institutions alone, but because of a fully developed medical ecosystem capable of addressing the most complex medical challenges.
If you are considering treatment in Spain and are looking for reliable, structured information, Barcelona International Hospitals can help guide you and connect you with the most appropriate medical centre.
Frequently asked questions about the best hospitals in Spain
Which hospitals in Spain appear in the Forbes rankings?
The Forbes rankings include leading hospitals within the Barcelona International Hospitals network, such as Centro Médico Teknon, Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona, and Hospital Universitari Dexeus, along with specialised units from partner institutions recognised for excellence in specific medical fields.
Why is Barcelona so frequently mentioned in healthcare rankings?
Due to its concentration of clinical expertise, advanced technology, and a multidisciplinary approach to complex medical care.
Is Spain a suitable destination for international patients?
Yes. Many hospitals have extensive experience treating international patients and offer comprehensive support services.
In which medical specialties is Spain particularly strong?
Cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, women’s health, and neurorehabilitation.
How does BIH help patients choose a hospital?
BIH helps match each patient’s medical needs with the most suitable hospital and medical specialty.
If you would like to learn more about the advantages of Barcelona International Hospitals or request a consultation, you can complete the contact form on the website.
