Health Care in Guadalajara
Summary: Learn about the health system in Guadalajara: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Guadalajara.
Guadalajara has both public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is called the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and is used by both Mexicans and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Guadalajara for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. At a public hospital in Guadalajara, you can expect to find a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, general surgery, and specialized care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Mexico. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they often have shorter wait times and more modern facilities. Private hospitals in Guadalajara offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and specialized care.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Guadalajara
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Guadalajara for expats. These include the public Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, located in the city center, which specializes in emergency care and general surgery; the private Hospital Angeles Guadalajara, located in the city center, which specializes in emergency care and general surgery; and the private Hospital San Javier, located in the city center, which specializes in emergency care and general surgery. For specialized medical care and surgeries, expats in Guadalajara often go to hospitals in nearby cities, such as the public Hospital General de Occidente in Zapopan, which is about 20 minutes away by car, or the private Hospital San Javier in Tlaquepaque, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
Emergency Services in Guadalajara
Guadalajara has several ambulance services, including the public Cruz Roja Mexicana and the private Servicios Médicos de Urgencia. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 066 from any phone. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the location.
Health Insurance Companies in Guadalajara
The most popular private health insurers in Guadalajara are Seguro Popular, IMSS, and GNP Seguros. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers.
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 Guadalajara
- Cost of Living in Guadalajara
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico
- Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Real Estate in Mexico
- 9 Best Places to Live on Mexico's Pacific Coast
- Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Mexico
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico


