Health Care in Cali
Summary: Health Care in Cali: Locate providers, hospitals, and medical centers to find the best health services available for expats and nomads.
Cali has both public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is called Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud (SGSSS). It is used by both locals and foreigners, although foreigners may need to pay out of pocket for some services. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Cali for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. At a public hospital in Cali, you can expect to find a wide range of services, including emergency care, general medicine, and specialized care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Colombia.
Expats and digital nomads typically use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Cali are well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. They offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, general medicine, and specialized care. Some of the most popular private hospitals in Cali include Clinica Valle del Lili, Clinica Universitaria Bolivariana, and Clinica del Country. All of these hospitals are located in the city center and are easily accessible by car.
Emergency services in Cali are provided by the local fire department. To call for an ambulance, dial 123. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays due to traffic or other factors.
The most popular private health insurers in Cali are Sura, Colseguros, and Seguros Bolivar. These companies offer a wide range of health insurance plans, including basic coverage, comprehensive coverage, and specialized coverage. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies for their health insurance needs.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Cali
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Cali
- Health Care in Cali
- Discovering the Best of Cali
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Colombia
- Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Real Estate in Colombia
- Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Colombia?
- Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Colombia


