Healthcare and Health Insurance in Guatemala

Summary: The quality of medical care in Guatemala is generally lower than in the United States. Emergency services are limited and often lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. To call for an ambulance, one must dial the emergency number, 112. However, due to the limited resources, response times can be slow and the quality of care may not be up to the standards of the United States.

How are healthcare services Guatemala?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guatemala, they replied:

"Make sure to look for the best doctors, get a private Guatemalan insurance to take you the best hospitals.. forget about public hospital unless it is for emergency," said one expat living in Guatemala City.

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What are medical services in Guatemala like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guatemala, they replied:

"45 minutes into Guatemala City provides you with world class healthcare at a fraction of the price," commented one expat who moved to Antigua.

"For myself I bring enough of my meds from Canada to hold me over. Any other first aid or illness I have been able to get what is needed, either for me or my neighbours kids who may need meds or see a Doctor. As most Pharmacies are owned by Doctors ,it is convenient and easy to receive treatment," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Guatemala can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's public health system. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of care in Guatemala can vary greatly, with some facilities offering better care than others. As a result, it is important to research the quality of care available before making a decision about health insurance," said an expat in Guatemala.

"My health insurance take care of 2/3 of the bill but still the cost is very low in total and cheap," commented one expat living in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.

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What are emergency services like in Guatemala?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Guatemala wrote:

"My closest hospital is 20 minutes drive but it is a public one and wouldn't go there unless to get stabilize before heading to Guatemala City a 2 1/2 drive.. to a private hospital .. Excellent care," mentioned one expat in Guatemala City.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Guatemala City is the largest city in Guatemala and has the most comprehensive selection of medical specialists. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Quetzaltenango, Escuintla, and San Marcos. Additionally, the departments of Sacatepéquez, Chimaltenango, and Sololá are known for having a wide variety of medical specialists," commented one expat who moved to Guatemala.

"I go to either Guatemala City a 2 1/2 hours drive or Quetzaltenango 2 hours drive. Quality of services excellent," said one expat.

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Are common prescription medications available in Guatemala?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Guatemala. Most medications can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription, although some require a prescription from a doctor. Prices for medications in Guatemala are generally lower than in other countries, making them more accessible to the general population. Additionally, many medications are available in generic form, which can be even more affordable," wrote an expat living in Guatemala.

"Every thing is available unless you have high tech drugs.. Most of the medicines are delivered without prescription," said an expat in Lake Atitlan.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Guatemala?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Guatemala vary greatly in quality. In general, the public health system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to inadequate care in many areas. Private hospitals and clinics tend to offer better quality care, but they are often expensive and out of reach for many people. In rural areas, access to medical care is often limited, and the quality of care is often lower than in urban areas. Despite these challenges, there are some excellent medical facilities and providers in Guatemala, and the country is making efforts to improve access to quality healthcare," commented one expat living in Guatemala.

"Healthcare can be a challenge. There are some well trained doctors in the larger villages but their range of care is limited. There is a good private hospital in Santiago (Hospitalito Atitlan) but depending on what kinds of volunteer doctors are there during your emergency they may not be able to help. The public hospital in Solola I call the pre-morgue. It is a grim place I wouldn’t send an enemy. Best care is Guatemala City. A three hour, $100US, ambulance ride away or an expensive helicopter airlift," wrote one expat.

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As a foreigner living in Guatemala, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Guatemala have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and overcrowded. The public healthcare system is often unable to provide the most up-to-date treatments and medications, and the wait times for appointments can be long. However, there are some private healthcare facilities that offer better quality care," wrote an expat living in Guatemala.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Guatemala if they have access to public healthcare in Guatemala. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"I have had the normal ailments. Colds and diarrhea . I have been stung twice by scorpions and was able to get the proper meds for that.. I have a relationship with Dr. Huricane, to allow my neighbours access to meds when I am not there .He Emails me the situation and I give the OK . I pay him when I get back. Dr. Luis Pena runs a clinic for free also. Expats are asked to give donations to the clinic when they receive a service," wrote one expat.

"I got a COVID test at the centro de salud before I went to the US in March. Easy. And fast," commented one expat who moved to San Pedro La Laguna.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Guatemala?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Guatemala about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the medical care available in Guatemala before having a baby. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Guatemala and who speaks your language. It is also important to make sure that you have access to a hospital or clinic that is equipped to handle any complications that may arise during delivery. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you have a support system in place, such as family or friends, who can help you during the pregnancy and after the baby is born. Finally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations regarding birth certificates and other legal documents that may be required for your baby," wrote a person living in Guatemala.

"Have a plan B in case you went your baby delivered at home.. If you choose a doctor be sure he won't put you on a schedule and make the baby come when he wants as they have the tendency to do it.," explained one expat living in Panajachel.

Are healthcare services good in Guatemala?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Guatemala. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Guatemala are generally limited and of low quality. Access to healthcare is often difficult for many people, especially those living in rural areas. The public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed, and many people rely on private healthcare providers for their medical needs. The country also has a high rate of maternal and infant mortality, and a lack of access to basic medical supplies and equipment. Despite these challenges, there are some initiatives in place to improve healthcare services in Guatemala, such as the introduction of a national health insurance system and the expansion of public health services," remarked one in Guatemala.

"Health care is for the most part affordable in Guatemala. I have had major surgery here and it was very good and far below the cost of a co-pay in the US. But one must shop around and ask other people for recommendations. Some places exploit older patients and do unnecessary treatments. But there are lots of really good doctors here. One suggestion: look for a doctor who actually listens to you and respects your opinions. The younger ones often have a US attitude that is not helpful," explained one expat.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Guatemala

How are healthcare services Guatemala?

What are medical services in Guatemala like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?

What are emergency services like in Guatemala?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Guatemala?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Guatemala?

As a foreigner living in Guatemala, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Guatemala?

Are healthcare services good in Guatemala?

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