The healthcare system in Managua is a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is called the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute (INSS) and is used by both locals and foreigners. However, many people do not recommend using public hospitals in Managua for serious medical emergencies and major surgery due to the lack of resources and outdated equipment. The public hospitals in Managua are often overcrowded and understaffed, and the quality of care is not always up to par.
Nicaragua’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Nicaragua is available to all citizens and foreigners, but many expats and digital nomads opt to use private hospitals and clinics for their medical needs. Private hospitals in Managua are generally better equipped and offer higher quality care than public hospitals. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped to handle these types of cases.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Managua
Some of the recommended hospitals and clinics for expats in Managua include:
- Clinica Bautista: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
- Clinica Amistad: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
- Clinica Metropolitana: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
- Clinica Las Americas: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
- Clinica San Juan de Dios: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
- Clinica San Rafael: a private hospital located in the center of Managua.
For specialized medical care and surgeries, expats in Managua often go to hospitals in nearby cities such as Granada, Masaya, and Leon, which are all within an hour’s drive from Managua.
Emergency Services in Managua
There are ambulance services in Managua, and they can be called by dialing 118. The response time is usually quick, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Managua
The most popular private health insurers in Managua are Seguros Monterrey, Seguros Atlas, and Seguros La Previsora. These companies offer a variety of health insurance plans for both locals and foreigners. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some opt to use specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Managua: Health Care
“Consider using Hospital Vivian Pellas in Managua for critical healthcare. Look for a local doctor that speaks English for routine healthcare. We have Medicare in the USA, so we could return there for hospital care if desired. Most medications can be obtained without a written prescription (excluding opioids),” commented one member living in Managua, Nicaragua.
