Colombia Expat Forum

fecherklyn
Joined 2015
Posts: 1370

3 years ago

Hello Colombia, welcome to the club

3 years ago

If we judge counties by the quality of their national, daily newspapers I think Colombia merits an honourable mention. In this context, Antioquia can offer el Colombiano as a prime example of a decent read of what you need to know about Colombia. In today’s edition it has an interesting spread regarding where Colombia’s medical service stands in the world rankings.

According to OECD’s (Organisation of Cooperation and Development) latest study (2019/2020) Colombia does not come out very well.

Bear in mind the OECD’s nickname is “The Club of Good Practice” which makes it rather elitist by nature as it only permits members of “quality” and one only earns membership after thorough researching of background and values. Colombia decided years ago to apply for membership and finally succeeded only recently. I do wonder if Colombia is still so enthusiastic about their decision now the group has just published their latest Index of Medical Services – Colombia emerges as bottom of class.

The Index of Medical Services examines 49 factors (Such as availability of qualified medical officers, number of beds in hospitals and clinics, etc) and Colombia was well below average; in fact with 53 points out of a maximum 100, she came last

Examples:

Number of beds in medical units per 1,000 inhabitants = 1.6, versus 4.8 OECD average.

Percentage of PIB devoted to medical services – Colombia 7%, versus 9.0% OECD average.

This does not surprise me as Colombia is a newbie to this “forum” and it is still learning what it means to be esteemed. It may however be a dent in the pride of many Colombians who have understood (from Colombian media) they were a model for others?

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Colombia Guide

Expats in Colombia discuss the pros and cons of living in Colombia. From the Colombian people to driving to taxes and more. As challenging as it can be, expats in Colombia clearly find that there is a lot to love about a country that is a surprising expat hot spot.

Colombia Forum
Join our Colombia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Colombia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Best Places to Live in Colombia

If you're considering a move to Colombia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Colombia in 2023.

Healthcare in Colombia

Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.

Cost of Living in Colombia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Colombia.

Moving to Colombia Guide

With its bustling cities, beautiful beaches and friendly Colombians, Colombia is an increasingly popular destination for expats of all ages. Expats in Colombia offer insightful tips for those moving to Colombia.

Real Estate in Colombia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Colombia.

Pros & Cons of Living in Colombia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Colombia.

Retiring in Colombia

Advice for people retiring in Colombia.

10 Tips for Living in Colombia

If you've recently arrived in Colombia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Colombia.

Additional Information:

Visit our Colombia Index for a Full List

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.