Health Care in Rosarito
Summary: Learn about the health system in Rosarito: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Rosarito.
Rosarito has a public and private healthcare system. 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 Rosarito for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. At a public hospital in Rosarito, patients can expect to receive quality care at a fraction of the cost of a private hospital. 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 offer more personalized care and shorter wait times. Private hospitals in Rosarito are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, and offer a higher level of care than public hospitals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Rosarito
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Rosarito for expats. The Hospital de la Familia is a public hospital located in the center of Rosarito, and is well-equipped to handle medical emergencies. The Hospital de la Familia also specializes in orthopedic surgery. The Hospital San Javier is a private hospital located in the center of Rosarito, and is well-equipped to handle medical emergencies and major surgeries. The Hospital San Javier also specializes in cardiology and oncology. For specialized medical care and surgeries, expats in Rosarito typically go to hospitals in Tijuana, which is approximately 20 minutes away by car.
Emergency Services in Rosarito
There are ambulance services in Rosarito, and they can be called by dialing 066. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Rosarito
The most popular private health insurers in Rosarito are Seguro Popular, IMSS, and GNP. Seguro Popular is a government-run health insurance program that provides basic coverage for low-income individuals. IMSS is a government-run health insurance program that provides comprehensive coverage for individuals and their families. GNP is a private health insurance company that provides comprehensive coverage for individuals and their families. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, rather than specialized expat health insurance providers.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Rosarito
- Cost of Living in Rosarito
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico
- Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Real Estate in Mexico
- 10 Best Places for Families to Live in Mexico
- Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Mexico
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico


