Health cover in Spain

Hi, 

My husband and I are hoping to move over here permanently, into this area, early next year. We are in our early 60's so cannot go onto the healthcare system via the uk scheme yet (S1). We will not be working but living on private pensions.

Has anyone managed to get on the Spanish health system under the new royal decree? There are so many rumours and stories about this, it is hard to make sense of it. We know that for residency we will need private health cover for the first 12 months but after that it is a mystery!! Especially, as it seems that in Andalusia the "convenio especial" has finished. Which we could have joined and paid around 60 euros a month each apparently.

Also any suggestions for private healthcare cover would be good as the quotes we are getting are scary. We need an insurance to take us on with pre existing conditions. (We know these won't be covered with nearly all of them).

Any help or advise will be greatly appreciated. Especially if you are in the same position.

Many thanks

Anne