Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Puntarenas, Costa Rica


Top Hospitals in Costa Rica by Specialty

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Summary: If you're moving to Costa Rica or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.

Costa Rica is renowned for its high-quality healthcare system, which includes both public and private hospitals. The public healthcare system, run by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), provides universal healthcare to its citizens and residents, including expats who are legal residents and contribute to the system. Private hospitals, on the other hand, offer an alternative for those seeking faster service or more specialized care, often preferred by expats, international retirees, and digital nomads. While Costa Rica's healthcare system is robust, there are certain highly specialized treatments or rare conditions that may require expats to return to their home countries for care. However, for many common and specialized medical needs, Costa Rica's top hospitals are well-equipped to provide excellent care.

Top Hospitals in Costa Rica for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions

For cardiac care, Hospital Clinica Biblica in San José is one of the leading facilities in the country. It offers comprehensive services for heart surgery and chronic heart conditions, including state-of-the-art catheterization labs and a team of highly skilled cardiologists. Another top institution is Hospital La Católica, also in San José, which provides advanced cardiac care with modern technology and specialized medical staff.

Best Hospitals for Cancer Care in Costa Rica

When it comes to oncology, Hospital CIMA in Escazú is highly regarded. It has a dedicated cancer treatment center that offers a range of services from chemotherapy to radiation therapy, with a team of specialists focused on providing personalized care. Hospital Clinica Biblica also has a well-respected oncology department, known for its comprehensive cancer care programs.

Leading Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Hospital Nacional de Niños in San José is the premier pediatric hospital in Costa Rica, featuring a top-notch neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This hospital is dedicated to children's health and is equipped with the latest technology to care for premature and critically ill newborns. Hospital CIMA's NICU is another excellent facility, offering high-quality care for newborns in a private hospital setting.

Top Hospitals in Costa Rica for Diabetes Management

For diabetes management, Hospital Clinica Biblica offers a comprehensive diabetes program that includes education, nutrition counseling, and advanced treatment options. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive holistic care. Hospital La Católica also provides specialized services for diabetes patients, focusing on prevention, treatment, and management of complications.

Best Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care

Hospital Calderón Guardia in San José has a renowned nephrology department, offering dialysis and other kidney treatments. It is one of the public hospitals with a strong reputation for kidney care. In the private sector, Hospital CIMA has a dedicated dialysis center and provides comprehensive care for kidney disease patients, including those in need of transplants.

Top Hospitals in Costa Rica for Neurology

For neurological conditions, Hospital Mexico in San José is one of the main public hospitals with a strong neurology department. It is well-equipped to handle a range of neurological disorders, including stroke and epilepsy. In the private sector, Hospital Clinica Biblica has a team of experienced neurologists and neurosurgeons, offering advanced treatments and surgical interventions.

Best Hospitals for Stroke Treatment

Hospital Calderón Guardia is recognized for its excellent care in stroke treatment, with a dedicated stroke unit and rehabilitation services. It is one of the public hospitals with a comprehensive approach to stroke care. Hospital CIMA also provides specialized stroke treatment, with a focus on rapid response and rehabilitation.

Leading Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery

Hospital Clinica Biblica boasts a state-of-the-art orthopedic department, offering a wide range of surgeries from joint replacements to sports injuries. Their team of orthopedic surgeons is highly skilled and experienced. Hospital CIMA is another top choice for orthopedic surgery, known for its modern facilities and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Top Hospitals in Costa Rica for Pediatric Care

The Hospital Nacional de Niños is the foremost pediatric hospital in Costa Rica, providing comprehensive care for children across a wide range of medical specialties. It is the go-to public hospital for pediatric care. In the private sector, Hospital CIMA offers excellent pediatric services, with a dedicated team of pediatricians and child-friendly facilities.

Expats, international retirees, and digital nomads living in Costa Rica have access to a range of specialized hospitals for various medical conditions. While the country's healthcare system is equipped to handle many medical needs, it is always advisable to have a thorough understanding of the available services and to consider health insurance options that provide coverage for specialized treatments, both in Costa Rica and abroad if necessary.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Costa Rica Network Contribute
Help others in Costa Rica by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Costa Rica.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal