×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Health Care in San Marcos 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Health Care in San Marcos

By Betsy Burlingame

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Summary: Learn about the health system in San Marcos: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in San Marcos.

The healthcare system in San Marcos is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system, known as the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute (INSS), is widely used by locals, while private healthcare is often the choice for expats and foreigners.

Nicaragua's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Nicaragua is managed by the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute (INSS). This system is accessible to all Nicaraguans, including foreigners who have obtained residency. However, the quality of care in public hospitals can vary, and they are often crowded and under-resourced. For serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people, especially expats, prefer to use private hospitals. Private hospitals in San Marcos and other major cities in Nicaragua offer a higher standard of care, with more modern facilities and English-speaking staff. However, they are also more expensive than public hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in San Marcos

San Marcos has a limited number of healthcare facilities. The main public hospital is the Hospital Primary San Marcos. For private healthcare, expats often travel to nearby cities such as Managua. Some of the recommended private hospitals in Managua include:

  • Hospital Metropolitano Vivian Pellas - a private hospital known for its high standard of care.
  • Hospital Bautista - another private hospital offering a range of medical services.
These hospitals are approximately 1-2 hours drive from San Marcos.

Emergency Services in San Marcos

Emergency services in San Marcos are limited. Ambulance services are available, but response times can be slow, especially in rural areas. In case of an emergency, it is recommended to call 128, the national emergency number.

Health Insurance Companies in San Marcos

There are several private health insurance companies operating in San Marcos. These include Seguros America and Seguros Lafise, both of which offer a range of health insurance plans. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to use international health insurance providers, which offer coverage in multiple countries and often include medical evacuation coverage. These international providers are often more expensive, but they offer a higher level of coverage and more flexibility for expats and digital nomads.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.


GeoBlue
GeoBlue

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Nicaragua Network Contribute
Help others in Nicaragua by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Nicaragua.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides