Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Nicaragua Expat Forum

Medical care in Camelot

New Topic Newest First
elduendegrande
  5/8/2015 14:14 EST

Recently some boilerplate was posted and I thought I would take a minute to add some factoids.

1) Nic. private insurers can and do deny policies based on age and previous conditions, including minor ones. Apply early and apply often! No obamacare here!

2) Nic policies can expire at age 70, when you may need the insurance the most.

3)The Pellas plan is a discount plan, not an insurance. It also excludes 'terminal' conditions. Kickem when they are down, I always say. Possibly good stopgap for somebody here for a year or so.

4) Medical costs in Nic are often negotiable, and substantially so. How is your negotiating ability when you are unconscious, leaking fluids uncontrollably at both ends, have stabbing chest pain, or just got hauled to the hospital in the fetal position in the back of a pickup?

5) Public hospitals are free except medicines to the limits of the facility and staff, which can be minimal especially in the countryside or on Saturday nights. No medivacs to a bigger hospital to save your life. Plan on having somebody bring fly swatters and mosquito repentant
.
6) Nursing care is not what you are used to. The tradition is you have relatives come sit with you in the hospital 24/7. Lacking relatives, you might bring in the maid or hire a nurse.

7) Side effects/bad combos of medicines are not paid much attention to here, like in the US many decades ago. Suggest you look things up on medlineplus.com before you take them. For fun, ask doctor and see the blank stare and generic reassurance.

8) Nic doctors vary from excellent all the way down to like a bad veterinarian on a bad day. And in the prevailing culture/ legal system the bad ones know they will get away with anything.

9) Nic. traditional folk beliefs generally waste time and make things worse.

10) If you have an emergency medivac plan if may not really cover expats, may not fly you to where you want to go or where you have insurance and relatives. It may just sent you to a hospital in Managua.

11) You do not 'get' medicare at age 65. You get or can easily get Plan A, hospitalization. PlanB, docotors and routine care, you may only start when you are n the US but then can carry it with you by paying the 100 bucks/mo. Plan C and D, which are the preferred choices for most folks, require you to be in the market area 6 months of the year. I am told Canadian provincial care has the same limit. Anywho, Medicare does not pay in Nic and never will. They can't handle the corruption nor the costs in the US, much less going global.

12)If you have medicare C with an allowance for foreign travel, be advised it is only good for the first 60 days of your 'trip'.

13) International policies that pay world wide cost about as much as the average social security check, and look carefully at all the usual bugaboos--copays, etc.

14)Health care is cheap here, pay cash! Well, maybe do the numbers, pookie. If you had an employer paid plan where your copay on a $1000 procedure was 50 bucks and here in Nic the same procedure only costs 200 bucks, you got a bargain, right? Actually, your cost just quadrupled. Your bank account will know, even if you personally are mathematically challenged. Yeah, you will survive the 200 bucks, but get into a big hurt and the bills will add up.

15) the VA only has clinics and hospitals in the US, or at least not in Nic. If you are qualified, sign up and plan on making about 4 trips to the local clinic to get fully in the system. Va hospitals are limited, but big cities like Miami and Houston have them. If you do not live locally and frequent the clinic, you may have no way of knowing which doctors are duds, and few to choose from anyway. I've seen 2--the first one wasted time on unnecessary testing and then gave bad advise on a simple problem and the other was in worse shape than me and one step out of a nursing home. I hope you have better luck, I just report what I see/ don't shoot the messenger. You must get an appointment for anything once a year to stay active with that clinic. Hospitalization is open to you if you have the ID card or are on the computer. They do pay for prescriptions in the US. Whether they reimburse for out-of-the country medical is unknown to me at this time.

16) Do not assume you will be allowed on a flight if you are seriously ill or injured. The airline has liabilities to consider. Long drive to Brownsville.

I'm tired, gonna go look for a cup of joe. Have a nice day.

bhjoffe
  5/8/2015 14:31 EST

That's downright scary!

We're reconsidering our desire to relocate and retire in Nicaragua.

Maybe we would be better of in the Yucatan (Merida, Progreso, etc.) area of Mexico ... especially if the ferry service between either Tampa, Florida, or New Orleans and Progreso begins later this year as planned.

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

iguanalover
  5/8/2015 17:01 EST

elduendegrande is a hopeless romantic, but he does tell one side of a story. The bottom line in Nicaragua is be responsible for yourself and stay healthy. We have heard good and bad about almost everyone. The best bet is to stay out of the system. And I would ad, most health care people in Nicaragua speak Spanish, it is a Spanish speaking country.

KeyWestPirate
  5/8/2015 17:32 EST

I've seen some impressive results from the Nicaraguan system, but it so much depends on ...everything.

I've also seen a lot of Nicaraguans fall through the cracks.

We use a private Nicaraguan doctor, very pleased, $8 office visit, but he works all day at a hospital, and is only available after 4PM.

One of the truest statements you will (often) hear about Nicaragua: Your mileage will vary.

elduendegrande
  5/8/2015 19:10 EST

Ah, Tasters Choice decaf, great stuff for the pm.

17) Social Security pays worldwide, but I Suspect SSI does not. Look before you leap. Likewise, when you really hit bottom and go for Medicaid, it is a secondary payer to Medicare so that makes it Stateside only. Hope you never get there--Medicaid Estate Recovery is a bundle of laughs for the family.

bhjoffe
  5/8/2015 21:17 EST

Per my research, Social Security (SSI) DOES pay worldwide.

What we -- those of us > 65 -- lose by moving outside the USA is our Medicare benefits.

That's major, all things considered.

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

atz111
  5/8/2015 21:29 EST

Not quite. If you live overseas you can still receive medicare benefits if you get them in the USA, So in case of something major you could fly to Miami for 400 bucks and get treatment..like a big deductible. Obviously for the small stuff not worth it, but can't have everything. There are ways you can core a lot of what happens, just requires the right info and some thought.

elduendegrande
  5/8/2015 22:18 EST

Yes, but have it all planned in advance. My medicare B had a 4 month gap between application and start of coverage. And Medicare B can be a prereq for a C plan in some cases.

elduendegrande
  5/9/2015 19:19 EST

SSI-look before you leap

http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/text-eligibility-ussi.htm

atz111
  5/9/2015 19:42 EST

SSI...Not to be confused with Social Security Income...two different things

KeyWestPirate
  5/9/2015 19:59 EST

One thing to consider is an Medicare Advantage plan, instead of a supplemental which has a monthly premium.

In many markets there is NO cost for the Advantage plan. If you're in a market where medical care is expensive, California, New York, etc, you will have a monthly premium. I had none in Boise, Idaho, and none in Tucson, AZ.

I maintain a UPS Store box here, so any medication would be sent to the box (as is everything else).

My Advantage plan also includes emergency out of country coverage. The amount used to be $25K,, I don't know what my current plan offers.

This is not paid directly to the provider. You have to pay, collect receipts, and seek reimbursement.

My vendor is Humana. They covered a $600 eye specialist bill the last time I was in the US, with a co-pay of $45. If it's just a regular doctor, co-pay is $5.

So, the plan just sits there and cooks, if I got dengue or chicken gumbo, or something serious, I would jump on a plane and go to the nearest ER,, which would be Houston or Miami.

They send me a new card every year and a new provider book. Otherwise we don't have much contact. The plan is geographically specific, but in an emergency you can seek out medical care anywhere and they will cover it.

I'm in pretty good shape, take no medications, so my situation might be different from others.

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

elduendegrande
  5/9/2015 21:05 EST

Advantage plan is another name for c plan.

Regular dengue or cg are not worth leaving the country-the only treatment is tylenol, fluids and rest. Not likely you would be allowed on the plane, anyway. The step kid was vomiting all over the place.

Read the small print on your policy about foreign travel. Here's an unofficial summary:
http://www.medicareinteractive.org/page2.php?topic=counselor&page=script&script_id=339

One of the many things wrong with US medical care is the lack of "portability".

elduendegrande
  5/9/2015 21:23 EST

Actually, I checked and Advantage is Part C, Plan C would be a Medigap policy. Either way read the policy.

JohnSS
  5/10/2015 05:20 EST

elduendegrande - The absolute best summary I have seen!
Those here living month to month on a $1,000 shoestring income probably wont get emergency care at Pellas - They need cash up front.

As your link shows you lose SSI after 30 days out.

All the emergency coverage plans I have looked at you lose emergency care here after 6 months out. Am I missing one that pays? I did use mine once for $1,000 and no requirement to show passport stamps.

elduendegrande
  5/10/2015 12:48 EST

Best bets for those moving to NIc:

Be independently wealthy

0r

Don't worry, be happy, accept your fate stoically

Many of the potential problems do not have to do with Nic. specifically but with the territorial nature of state or private medical care. Actually, Nic is slightly better in that you can get care on a no-qualifying, walk in the door basis. You get the same in any US emergency room, but on the way out they give you the bill which in some cases will be a multiple of your yearly income.

I did spend one night in a NIc private hospital and was pleased the bill was only 100 bucks, but it would not take too many weeks of such to create a financial crises or at least put a serious dent in the fun of life. I assume (yikes) all furriners know to always carry a valid visa card with at least 5k available for emergency medical care when traveling in the 3rd world.

atz111
  5/10/2015 14:19 EST

The advice...and I use that term loosely...on this subject sucks. Misleading and a one size fits all mentality...to be expected. Kind of the usual,...more need to talk than to think.

There are lots of options. First, without insurance and a major unjust you are in trouble. Even in Nicaragua where a lot of treatment is cheap, a heart attack or the Big C or a big accident and you got tens of thousands in bills if you want a good Doc. You believe the stories about.."well I had heart surgery and it on;y cost 300 bucks"....I have a bridge you can buy cheap. If the Nica bill is 20K vs a 200 k USA bill and you don't have 20K you got the same problem.

Just a few of the options.....There is insurance for Expats...lots of companies...not cheap, but 400 bucks a month gets it all covered. Less and you cover the catastrophes and handle a impel fracture out of pocket. On medicare...if you go back to States every year you can get supplemental coverage for it there at 100 bucks a month. Covers emergencies and urgent care away form home base, although you will have to pay the bills and submit to insurance company.

To you who are getting you advice from the two or three guys who post there all the time on every conceivable subject...wise up. Most is BS. listening to it will get you in trouble.

JohnSS
  5/10/2015 16:44 EST

atz111,

Sheesh - Learn to read! Nobody said all medical here with quality comparable to the US is dirt cheap. Nobody said one size fits all. You have choices between Pellas which has US certifications of some kind to compromises you are willing to live with. They include really bad care in many public hospitals. You read all of that.

A typical office visit to the Pellas doctors that have also practiced in the US is $40. That & lab work is a lot lower than the US though.
For minor stuff I use a collection of internet and Facebook advice from mart people including US doctors instead pf paying a local Nica doctor C$300 give or take. Most have little education, knowledge, and ability but believe differently.

$5K used to get you into Pelas - The last guy I know it was $10K. Service at 10% of US costs maybe. After that you pay their prices or fly home. You should not be here if that bothers you. If you can't pay you may die - Part of the game.

I am 73 -Your "one size fits all" for insurance here: "400 bucks a month gets it all covered" is a delirious pipe dream.
Especially for pre-existing conditions - You are out of luck.

Either add good information that that already given or save the hot air for yourself.

atz111
  5/10/2015 17:31 EST

Yes John...you are one of the problems on here....not as bad as lizard dick or the other fool that always writes three paragraph per sentence...

i have given good info...you just do not know how to access the coverage or the info...that is your problem...until you do, quit giving advice to others about it.

atz111
  5/10/2015 17:47 EST

PS John

I do read. Not all the stuff on here as I have a real life and do not feel the need for boosting self importance by posts on everything...
I do feel the need to interject a warning to people asking for advice to take what they get on here with a lot...s in a lot...of skepticism. Some 0f it is harmless pap, but there is some really bad (wrong) advice given on here that could get some dumb butt in trouble if the followed it....the stuff on starting and reining a business is a prime example..some of the things in there are not even close to real, or are just oft repeated tales...I wonder if any of the commenters has a business here...of course we know KWP has he has done it all here there and everywhere....all his tales add up to make him 103 years old..... this is meant to be a warning to readers to look at the three posters who have all the answers to every post and wonder what else it is they do..

JohnSS
  5/10/2015 17:49 EST

Ja ja ja ja - It takes all kinds and they all seem to live here.
That is what makes this place interesting.

atz111
  5/10/2015 18:27 EST

OK..rant done

On insurance...to correct some bad info on the first post...

First, if you come here thinking the system is so much better than USA and will take care of you, you are in for a shock. Yep, you can get decent care
a little money, but not always and not for the big stuff in all cases except by sheer luck. The system in the USA is much maligned but if you want to stay alive it is the place to be.

You need some money here...if you have $1,200 in SS you do not have enough unless you are luckily health wise. As anyplace you have to participate
(mentally and financially) in managing your care. There are ways to do it..all cost6
money, some more than others.

1. Evac insurance...plenty of companies will take you where you designate
and not "just drop you off" as was said. If you use a dart board to select one,
you may wind up short. The best is about $600 a year...$50 a month.
2. You need to be prepared to go back to USA if something big happens...if you can do it commercial, good, if not, the evac plan. So if you are pissing blood, hop the
next flight...heart attack, evac. after stabilized. No evac plan...trouble.
3. There are ways to manage C plans so you can use them while here...but as above have to go back to USA, except in emergency, or for urgent care. For the routine stuff you just have to pay it....take it out of you beer money. Maybe you don't want C...just go with A and B. Lots do. There are 100's of options so you have to look..
they do not just fall out of the sky. Again, if you have $1,000 a month you are in trouble for the get go. Sorry. Go live in Latvia. Come here broke and it is risky
and you cannot blame others for your life predicament.

JohnSS
  5/10/2015 18:27 EST

Woops - Missed your second post - Ja ja ja ja ja ja ja.
You are getting better all the time.

KeyWestPirate
  5/10/2015 22:15 EST

Well, I'm 70, 71 this July, but some days feel like 103. I haven't done it all, but I'm still actively at it. I'm in excellent health, don't drink excessively or smoke, so my plan might be different from someone else who is younger, for example,,,

Everyone will put together a different medical solution, depending on their health, age, resources. The important thing, I think, is to follow it through and come up with a workable solution.

What I have works for me, a Medicare Advantage plan that costs me nothing monthly,, but provides serious benefits with small co-pays; a relationship with a Nica doctor who I like and feel is knowledgeable, within his limitations.

One of the biggest limitations in Ncaragua is lack of diagnostic equipment in the public sector. It's there from private vendors, and it's not much money, but hard to access via the public health system. This leads to a lot of guessing by the public health doctors.

They are probably going to hit it eventually, but will you live that long?

My Advantage plan DOES require me to return to my service area every six months. That does not present a problem for me, and I really don't think anyone pays attention anyway. Certainly, no one checks.

I do have sufficient financial ability to use Pellas, but for me, where I am, it's probably not an option. If I couldn't get on a plane, it or one of the better hospitals in Managua might be a solution.

The third part of my plan is, jump on a plane if I sense something going seriously south.

Yes, Dengue treatment is simple maintenance, but I would still feel more comfortable getting the treatment in the US. People die regularly from dengue in Nicaragua. My Medicare Advantage plan would pay for it.

I DON'T believe that Nica health care is all that bad. But, people DO fall through the cracks. Doctor quality can be very inconsistent.

atz111
  5/10/2015 22:36 EST

Now that is a plan. People should take some action steps for themselves away from it. Pretty much covers the bases...if you have a bit of money and I always assume we are not talking about the living on their last dollar for a tons types.

I pretty much do the same thing with medicare except i have med evac as well as still travel to some places more remote than NICA..600 bucks a year.

FYI...I just had about $8,000 of work done in USA in one longish visit,.....my co-pay was about 200 bucks and no body checked to see if I had been there in the required time. but even if you do go back to stay clean you could do it for $500 and that is that. So even w/o the medevac plan it is $500 for great coverage.

Last...do find a good doc here...they are here and are worth gold..i am in striking distance of MGA so easy for me and I have worked at it.

alki
  5/11/2015 00:11 EST

Don't hold back atz111, tell us how you really feel

atz111
  5/11/2015 00:19 EST

wow..how clever and original...all it now needs is some bad advice scattered about and you will fit right in with the lets say something about everything even if we don't know WTF we are talking about...you got my vote

alki
  5/11/2015 11:30 EST

Stop whining and acting like an idiot is the only advice I would give you, alas I know its hard for people like you who know everything to tolerate us mere mortals and listening is not one of your strong points but to accentuate the positive, you make it easy to find you repulsive and inane.I feel sorry for you and hope one day you can grow up.I prefer to hear "bad advice" from people who don't " know WTF they are talking about" and do my own checking than to read your rants, but I really enjoy watching you make a fool of yourself, keep up the fine work !

People who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do. - Isaac Asimov

atz111
  5/11/2015 11:47 EST

Nobody is whining except you...and you are whiny about me...how FU is that...typical. My intent is to be sure people who ask for advice are forewarned about the JO's on here who dispense with bad advice time and time again. I just state facts I have personal knowledge of. But certainly in a pinch (or otherwise), I know a hell of a lot more than you, Mr. un-original. You just want to talk....about me or the philosophy of life here, not offer anything useful to the subject. You have a proper name alki...go drink some more.

JohnSS
  5/11/2015 13:25 EST

Sheesh atz111 when people report their actual experiences here dealing with the medical system or starting & running a businesses for many years in Nicaragua that is not bad advice - It is another input for a newcomer to consider.
You are running competition to the holder of all knowledge who has not yet posted to this thread.

glockdiver69
  5/11/2015 13:26 EST

In reading a lot of these comments, it appears that Nicaragua is in desperate need of a Psychiatric program. LOL. I have to say, there has been good entertaining information but like always, one should verify everything personally.

majicjack
  5/11/2015 13:39 EST

Alki,
I think ATZ is a drug cocktail used for aids way back when. It didn't work either from what I hear. The guys got in trouble going bareback with their gay friends and drug buddies. It could also be a relative of wagsa or twin brother or name change. I am leaning toward the later. It would be very scary to think that there are two mothers in this world that could produce this kind of child. Both could use a good ole south Texas ass whipping and I would love to be the one to administer it. However these type people are cowards and hide in their little hole. Internet warriors. Tough on the computer but sniveling cowards in person. Falling on the ground whining and screaming "Please don't hurt me".
Just hit the delete button and don't bother yourself trying to argue with someone of sub human intelligence. I don't even bother to read anything posted by this Ass hole. Find a good dog and have a good friendly conversation with someone that can understand what you are saying and can communicate with humans.

alki
  5/11/2015 15:19 EST

Poor poor atz111, so desperate and bitter. I really do hope he gets the help he needs. I may be " un- original" but you sound just like every other idiot that frequents forums trying to boost their weak ego. As for the whining it seems the original and constant whining is coming from you.I find it amusing that you feel you know of my knowledge from a few posts, you must have magical powers ! If you need any help into why others find you amusing just ask an adult for help

atz111
  5/11/2015 17:02 EST

Well Alki I am not poor and not old, but i bet you are. Stick with the 12 step program and you might get better. Better yet learn to read and you might learn something. I don't frequent this or any other Forum...posted more in this week than in the past year. Reason...just tired of reading bad advice by the same three or four guys to people who want to know some facts and not pontification and made up stuff. So, if you can count go back and check and see (again) how wrong you are about some of the most basic facts...

atz111
  5/11/2015 17:06 EST

Well magic jackoff you been reading these. so much for your story.

atz111
  5/11/2015 17:12 EST

Sheese JohnSS...(i like that saying)...I am not quarreling with facts and what are opinions of one person may be different for another. As i said...these is so much pure BS and bad info posted here by the same 3-4 guys who answer every post with a load of stuff and a lot of it is wrong...not "judgement call wrong"...just not true. I have run two business here and lived here 6 years and I find a lot of the stuff silly...opinions are one thing, stuff stated as facts are not. So the good thing of all this is anybody looking at these subjects can not see that they need to take it all with a cup (not a grain) of salt. You want to take issue with calling out BS, then do it...but it is good for people wanting good info.

bhjoffe
  5/11/2015 17:20 EST

This has nothing to do with medical care -- other than my nerves and need for Xanax -- but your comment about "such bad info posted here."

At this point before traveling to and spending time in Nicaragua, I have no idea what's true and what's not.

But, upon posting that we're considering the purchase of a property outside of Granada by Lake Apoyo, we've been warned that:

--The Lake no longer is what it used to be ... it's now dirty, polluted, and one certainly wouldn't want to swim there.

--Those who reside by the Lake tend to be party-people: loud, inconsiderate, boisterous, and up until all hours of the night and the morning, keeping everyone else there awake.

--The cost for utilities -- water, electricity, etc. -- is substantially higher in the Lake Apoyo area than elsewhere in Granada.

So, is this -- more or less -- true ... or the outpourings of just some unhappy people?

Thanks for the honesty!

atz111
  5/11/2015 17:27 EST

More or less NOT true...much more NOT than true.

That is precisely what I am talking about in the "bad info"...good it caught your attention.

1. Not polluted....

2. Party people..in some places could be...it is a big area surrounding the lake do you have to look and see for yourself. But certainly not a good generalization.

3. Electric cost...cannot say definitively...but since this came from same source as the other BS...likley not.

I will say, that some of the other things about the viability of the business you described (i think it was you) are worth consideration....be tough sledding so need to have $$ back up.

alki
  5/11/2015 19:41 EST

The poor thing must be on drugs, I find it hard to believe someone could be that ignorant naturally. Seek help child, for the sake of those around you

atz111
  5/11/2015 19:46 EST

Back to the 12 step alki...and leave the young ones alone...

alki
  5/12/2015 09:52 EST

Yawn, the poor child thinks he is humorous. Maybe if he grows up one day he will realize he doesn't and that he is being a fool, I wouldn't bet on it

elduendegrande
  5/12/2015 11:25 EST

May we conclude, one does not have to be nuts to live here, but it helps?

Anyway, AZT, could you post the name or web site of the evac plan you like for anyone who may be interested?

atz111
  5/12/2015 12:48 EST

We agree on the crazy part...but with one small addition...I think you have to be crazy just to live anywhere in these times and not go insane.

Global rescue. Not cheap..600 bucks a year, but it is good if you need it. They will get you out and look a the consultation feature, which i have read is invaluable in a place like this.

Another thing that has come up...Medicare Part C an living out of the county. i called my provider to double check...for me as long as I maintain my address in the USA, traveling constantly makes no difference. Use caution as that likely will differ with coverage. So for my 80 bucks premium I am pretty well covered...limp back to States if I feel really sick (just did it and $8,000 in insurance later...$200 to me) I am better, or if really bad have Global Rescue take me...for all the minor stuff, do it here and for that it is not that bad if you hunt the right docs before sick.

So for $1,500 a year i am pretty well covered for the big stuff...I realize that is a lot for someone getting $1,000/month SS...but as we know you do need some money to "insure" against the unknown and make it less of a crap shoot.

Hope that helps...what i do is pretty close to what KWP described. We both also have the benefit of regular trips back to USA, but you could manage without that

JohnSS
  5/13/2015 03:55 EST

atz111

The Energizer Bunny is actually sounding a little more rational.

Obviously you don't live in Nicaragua and are just a tourist so your medical situation is simple.
Live here full time like some of us (9 years here continuously for me) and you may wanna think about what you do if you get sick & FDC doesn't cure you.

And your claim "There is insurance for Expats...lots of companies...not cheap, but 400 bucks a month gets it all covered" is the completely false BS you warn everybody to avoid.

BUT you can't be wrong all the time and your "Global rescue" advice seems to be on the money - Congratulations!
https://globalrescue.com/index.xhtml

They quote $639/year which to me is a genuine bargain but I need to call them to see if you can live here full time at 73 years age and still qualify. Maybe they figure I will die quickly and no plane ride needed.

If I get accepted sounds like $10K or $20k spent here on emergency treatment and then you are out of here back to the Obama Camelot for medical care. Hillary will probably make medical free for everybody and bingo - Utopia.

BTW before you go swimming in Lake Apoyo buy a mask & snorkel so you can see the turds & dodge. And you won't get the polluted water in your eyes or mouth.

atz111
  5/13/2015 10:03 EST

I do live here full time...a bit over 6 years and covered as in my post. Hardly a tourist...have built 5 houses, rehabbed a couple and run another business. On SS and not rich, but not on my last dime either.

I am not on the expat insurance but on medicare and part C. That is all explained...you should try to read a bit more carefully as there are two posts that explain that clearly. I have used it just as I say...just got back from having 8K of work done in USA and two years ago for 15K procedure...so it is not theory... The 400 a month is for expat insurance if you do not have medicare and want to be covered for treatment in the county. I did not investigate them very closely as do not need but they are there for that much...may be not very good coverage...have to check it out and you can if you do a bit of work on line. but for you Medicare and Part C seem the way to go as cheaper and better insurance...just need to get to States for treatment.

Global Rescue is good till 75 years old...then you need some medical statement and price about doubles. The 639 bucks is for full time coverage, not tourist coverage.

So , you see most of the things that you and lizard dick say are not available or whatever, actually exist and are used and work....that was the point of my other posts about bad info. This last post just goes to show that is the case and is something you should avoid....know the facts before you post.

The "Obama Camelot "you speak of with such disdain works very well for me. I cannot generalize about others...but that again is the point.....your "factual" posts are all combined with some political rant that makes no sense and adds no value. You are certainly entitled to your opinion, but it is obvious you let it affect everything you say....be better if you kept that separate.

atz111
  5/13/2015 10:15 EST

On the "pollution in Laguna de Apoyo......

Where specifically did you encounter this...on what part of the lake? It is a big place.

In the places I have been I see none of that and I have never seen it reported. It is possible that someone is dumping into the lake as there are always dumb asses anyplace. That can be dealt with fairly easily...as apposed to generalized pollution from non-point sources.

If what you describe, is true, it is from direct dumping of sewerage into the lake so easy to identify the outfall. It would be very close where you encountered this so easy to ID. An they will deal with it at Marena or Intur....all you have to do is report it and not just paint the whole place with a broad brush which is just not true.

bhjoffe
  5/13/2015 10:23 EST

Thank you for these comments and clarification, atz111.

Because of the previous posts about pollution in Laguna de Apoyo ... loud and boisterous partying by people around Laguna de Apoyo ... and more expensive utility costs in the Laguna de Apoyo area ... we eliminated it from our potential places to relocate as expats.

So much of this sniping is a turn off ... the ugliness and mean-spiritedness are the primary reasons we want to leave the USA for elsewhere.

Maybe we should reconsider Nicaragua ... especially Granada?

At this point, instead, we have been focusing on Cuenca, Ecuador.

atz111
  5/13/2015 10:38 EST

Thee short points about that....not about medical care but on your relocation post.

1. The sniping and griping is done by just 3-4 people and if you look on the site you will see that it is always the same ones...not many other people who live here actually respond. So it is hardly representative and you will find them on every site. To me they are the ones you should listen to least as they always have some negatives that drive their thinking...either about USA or here. And many really do not have much real experience here, even though they live here..many in a survival mode driven by money, or lack thereof.

2. The post about the Laguna are manifestly untrue...on the electricity which I said I was unsure of in my reply...I did check with a guy who moved there from town about 5 months ago. He says the same and in the rate structure, it indicate there should be no difference based on equivalent use. I am not a great fan of the Laguna, but some are and it seems OK overall. Cuenca is a great place and seems like a good choice even without all the things said about the laguna. But whatever...if you listen to one person (as the laguna allegations) and base your actions on that, you are not being very wise in the process.

3. For all this, you need to visit and check it out closely for yourself...only that will tell you if it's the place and thou can see pretty quickly..but not is a weekend. Seems like a big move, so the more care you take at the front the better off you are likely

JohnSS
  5/13/2015 14:34 EST

atz111

You make remarks about posts here that are just not true. Several of us have posted that good medical care here for full time residents who don't travel back North is difficult to find - That is a fact.
What is absolutely & completely false is your claim:
"There is insurance for Expats...lots of companies...not cheap, but 400 bucks a month gets it all covered"
but you won't admit it.

Your experiences just as the experiences of others is important info for a newcomers annd you are right "one size does not fit all" and things don't work the same twice here so YMMV.

I don't have a negative view about "Obama Camelot". Who could fined fault with providing health care for more people including children? Natural haters probably. Statistics prove the US healthcare system is still far behind the world as far as cost and and quality. Things like life expectancy and child morality.

You are right about the cost of electricity in Nicaragua. It is controlled country wide by INE who sets the rates which are down about 6% to 8% from the last rates set in October 2014. Anything else is false information you refer to.
http://www.ine.gob.ni/oaip/ajustestarifarios/2015/INE-CD_01-04-2015_Ajuste_Abril2015.pdf

I posted a few links about starting a business here in the "Hola y Mucho Gusto" topic. Could have include INSS requirements and more labor & minimum wage laws but most people don't read & study to help themselves. That takes work so they want someone to hold their hands..
These are official & informative rather than offering in opinions. Have you considered doing the same?

Hang in there and be careful - Don't take that bait - There may be a hook inside ;-)

atz111
  5/13/2015 17:49 EST

Sheese John....do you know know how easy it is to look stuff up on the internet...I cannot believe that you cannot. Look here and see just how wrong YOU are....that is the issue here....bad facts to start with and after someone shows you stuff, you pile on with more...

https://www.cignaglobal.com/

one of many companies offering expat insurance..

For a 64 year old it is about 450 a month with no deductible...i chose age 64 because that is right before medicare eligibility..after that you are likely better with Medicare and some plans for travel in a severe illness situation...so Part C and Global Evac is about $150 a month combined

but even atage 70 it is about $630 a month with no deductible and you can get it down to 500 if you do a 30% copay which has a 3,000 yearly limit. Not bad

The limit on this is no coverage in USA...

JohnSS
  5/13/2015 22:31 EST

atz111 - Warning - Do no believe everything you read on the internet !
The Energizer Bunny is losing it. I have mentioned before I am 73. I have jumped the insurance hoop before..

Cigna *Preliminary* quote is $792.16/month and a lot less with $3,000 deductible - not bad. BUT then **fine print:**
"you will be required to complete a medical questionnaire for yourself and all other persons to be covered by this policy. Cover will be considered by our medical underwriting team and shall be subject to the policy terms and conditions. "

Unless your health is perfect price goes way up even for typical 73 year old conditions like slightly elevated blood pressure or cholesterol & sugar levels not needing treatment yet.
! could not get a firm quote on the phone but an estimate of maybe double to un-insurable.

I you ""know know how easy it is to look stuff up on the internet"" you would learn Part C Medicare Advantage Plans are not available if you live outside the US.

I AM dunb wasting time responding to you - I am outta here -

atz111
  5/13/2015 23:02 EST

This started off taking in generalities about expat insurance...not your specific case/age. True... at 73 your rate will be higher, but that does not mean it is not available and much more affordable to some one younger....say 50-60. Lots of those planning to come as well as those older...no? So my response was not to design tour plan but to say that these plans are available. I also said that at "medicare age" hard to beat Plan C and pointed out the big difference in premiums as age progresses.. But do you do not have a USA address...i assume you have no one you can use and do not go back like even once a year.


If all that is the case, then you are pretty much in the worst case insurance scenario. But you are pretty much the exception not the rule....look at some of the other posts by people not involved in this war of words...they, as I get along fine with some combination of existing insurance plans, medicare, etc. You like cannot fit in that group, but lots of people do, so generalizing and saying "can't get coverage" is not correct in general.

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

Living in Nicaragua GuideLiving in Nicaragua Guide

Did you know that lots of homes in Nicaragua don't have hot water? Did you know that it's very easy to meet other expats in Nicaragua? Expats share their tips for living in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua Forum Nicaragua Forum
Join our Nicaragua forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Nicaragua.

Contribute to Nicaragua Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Nicaragua.

Best Places to Live in Nicaragua Best Places to Live in Nicaragua

If you're dreaming about living in Nicaragua, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Nicaragua in 2023.

Healthcare in NicaraguaHealthcare in Nicaragua

Expats living in Nicaragua discuss health insurance and quality of medical care in Nicaragua. Additional topics include health insurance for 65+, in-home nursing care, prescription medicines and more.

Cost of Living in NicaraguaCost of Living in Nicaragua

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Nicaragua.

Moving to NicaraguaMoving to Nicaragua Guide

If you're thinking about moving to Nicaragua, you must read these 13 things to know before moving to Nicaragua. Expats offer realistic and honest advice about cost of living, learning the language, poverty, renting vs.

Real Estate in NicaraguaReal Estate in Nicaragua

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Nicaragua.

Pros Cons of Living in NicaraguaPros & Cons of Living in Nicaragua

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Nicaragua.

Retiring in NicaraguaRetiring in Nicaragua

Advice for people retiring in Nicaragua.

10 Tips for Living in Nicaragua10 Tips for Living in Nicaragua

If you've recently arrived in Nicaragua, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Nicaragua.

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

Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal