Cartago has both public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is called the Colombian Health System (Sistema de Salud Colombiano). It is available to all Colombian citizens and foreigners, although it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery.
Colombia’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Colombia is available to all citizens and foreigners, although it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Cartago are often overcrowded and understaffed, and the quality of care can be inconsistent. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Colombia, but most opt to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Cartago are generally well-equipped and offer a higher quality of care than public hospitals. Expats typically use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are more reliable and offer a higher quality of care.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Cartago
- Clinica San Rafael: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica San Vicente: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica Santa Maria: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica San Jose: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica San Juan: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica San Lucas: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
- Clinica San Pablo: Private hospital located in the center of Cartago.
If there are few or no hospitals in Cartago, expats in Cartago often go to hospitals in nearby cities such as Medellin, which is approximately two hours away by car.
Emergency Services in Cartago
Cartago has ambulance services, which can be called by dialing 123. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Cartago
The most popular private health insurers in Cartago are Sura, Colseguros, and Seguros Bolivar. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although there are also specialized expat health insurance providers available.
