Expat Healthcare & Health Insurance in Huatulco, Mexico

Currently the Mexican heath care system is being revised by the new President MACRO. They are doing away with one of the options that is often abused by expats which is meant to be used by the poorest of poor Mexicans. This option I would never recommend regardless as the doctors in many cases have not finished their education and you are taking a huge risk. Then there is another option which employers are required to contribute a portion to your coverage. But, as expats the most popular option is to purchase PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE. Pre-existing conditions are usually not covered. Public hospitals are not up to the US standards in the majority of cases, which is why most expats choose to use PRIVATE hospitals with PRIVATE insurance coverage.

Unfortunately, we do not have great options for people with serious issues - like cancer. But diabetes and high blood pressure, although serious, can be cared for here. Our issue in Huatulco is we do not have a private hospital, so we rely mostly on the Red Cross and the Marine Hospital.

The public hospital, the Red Cross, and the Marine hospital are all right next to each other on the main road in town. It is best to call for an ambulance from the Red Cross by dialing (958) 587-1188. For a fee of $40 USD a year, you will have free ambulance service.

Expats tend to travel to Mexico city for major health issues. This is about a half hour plane ride. It is important though to have PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE with Air Ambulance service.

Common prescriptions medicines are available locally and we have an abundance of pharmacies here. Most medications do not require a prescription with the exception of antibiotics. There are generic options here and prices are quite low compared to the US.

I had such a profound experience when I did NOT have health insurance, that it actually propelled me to work for a company that specifically offers private insurance to expats. About 16 years ago, I was hit by a taxi cab while crossing the street. I ended up in a public hospital and all I can say was I felt better out of that hospital than in it. The conditions were beyond terrible. So I went on a search for private health insurance which allowed me to use any PRIVATE hospital and covered me when traveling and in the US. If something really major happened, I would want to be treated in the US. So my insurance covers me anywhere in the world and I am able to choose where I get treatment, at any private hospital. The price is a fraction of what I was paying in the US - even with my employers portions. I am 50 and my husband is 58, we have a $1000 deductible and we pay about $2900 for the year. If anyone needs assistance, I am happy to help. I am technically "retired" so I am not trying to push anyone into insurance. I just know the challenges I had personally to sort through finding a policy with sufficient coverage at an affordable price.