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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Mexico | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 02, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Mexico is generally considered to be good, although it is not as advanced as the medical care available in the United States. Emergency services are available in Mexico, and ambulances can be called by dialing 066. However, response times may be slower than in the US, and the quality of care may not be as high.

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How are healthcare services Mexico?

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

"Although I have met people having care for serious conditions, my experience has only been dental. People I know who had the same procedure done just across the border in San Diego had side effects I did not experience with my Mexican dentist," said one expat living in Tijuana.

"Healthcare services in Mexico are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is known as the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and is funded by the government. It provides basic medical services to Mexican citizens and permanent residents, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment. The quality of public healthcare in Mexico is generally considered to be good, although there are some areas where it is lacking. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, but they can purchase private health insurance to cover medical expenses. Expats in Mexico typically use private healthcare services, although some may opt to use the public system if they are eligible," mentioned one expat in Mexico.

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What are medical services in Mexico like?

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

"Medical services in Mexico vary depending on the region. Generally, the country has a wide range of medical facilities, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. Many of these facilities offer quality care and modern medical technology. In addition, Mexico has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. Mexico also has a number of medical tourism destinations, where people from other countries can receive medical care at a lower cost than in their home countries," commented one expat living in Mexico.

"I avoid cut-and-drug as much as possible and take responsibility for the key aspects of health: eating wisely and exercising. If I don't do those things, what can anyone do for me? What I do no t like about the government health program that I joined is that doctors have the same reliance on drugs as in the US. I have not had hospital care, but friends who have report excellent care. I would like to start a movement to ban Coca Cola and other diabetes-inducing "foods." And I would like to see more attention paid to use of traditional medicinal plants, which are widely available in Mexico," wrote one expat.

Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

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Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico?

"I do not have medical insurance here in Mexico. And, most of my Dr's do not accept insurance anyway. Office visits, and hospital care are 1/5th the cost of USA and much better. In office appointments are usually an hour long instead of the 15 minute flyby of USA. Few Specialist have nurses. They do their own scheduling," said one expat.

"Private healthcare is generally excellent and less expensive than the USA and Europe. Health insurance is available up to 70 years of age (renewable) but gets expensive with age. My daughter who is 30 pays about US $100/month and I pay US $450/month at age 68. The last increase in premium was 20%. This is with 10% co-seguro and a deductible of US$2500. I guess at some point it will be unaffordable," remarked one expat in Mexico.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Mexico can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it often provides more comprehensive coverage and access to better quality care. Additionally, many employers in Mexico offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," remarked one expat living in Mexico.

"Medicare and supplements are only of use within the US except for certain life threatening emergencies when traveling. If you have substantial financial resources and a high respect for the health services in major cities you can pay for private care. Most insurance in MX will not cover preexisting conditions and the premiums are out of reach, especially for people over 70 or so. Staying connected with doctors and hospitals in the US is the most logical thing for us, we make several trips a year to see our doctors but are prepared to pay for care here in MX as needed," said one expat living in Merida.

"Unfortunately, when I moved abroad I was hit by a taxi. I was taken to a public hospital. That experience was life changing... I had never seen the conditions that I saw there - bathrooms with no soap or tp - group recovery rooms - disorder. I immediately realized the importance of have PRIVATE health insurance, and went on a mission to find suitable insurance for my family. As we love to travel I found insurance that allows us to be covered ANYWHERE in the WORLD including the US - at a fraction of the price we were paying when living in the US. We can choose ANY HOSPITAL OR DOCTOR that we wish. The policy is in English, the office is located in Playa Del Carmen with courtesy translation service, and there is an in-claims department, finally they are partnered with an international law firm. I felt that was soooo important to myself and my expat friends, that I asked for a job selling this insurance. I have been retired for 15 years, but got into this business because it is something that I feel passionate about and know that all my expat friends need," mentioned one expat in Playa Del Carmen.

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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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What are emergency services like in Mexico?

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

"Emergency services in Mexico are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, you can call 066 for an ambulance. This is a free service and the operator will be able to direct you to the nearest hospital or medical facility. The ambulance will be equipped with medical personnel and the necessary equipment to provide medical assistance. In some cases, the ambulance may also be able to provide transportation to the hospital," said one expat living in Mexico.

"I know of 3 hospitals in the area. Mexico General, Angeles Hosp. and Hospital Mexico are the ones I have heard of and I think 2 of them are public with nobody I have met telling horror stories, but I have not been to a hospital since the 80s and have not idea how one would get an ambulance. ," mentioned one expat in Tijuana.

"Tequisquiapan has a NUMBER of private hospitals. I cannot tell you about them as I travel TO QUERETARO for my health issues. I live in Tequisquiapan, Queretaro. For an expat, myself, I found myself unfortunately over the past 2 years needing healthcare. 1. Shoulder surgery 2. I was "found" by the ONLY venomous spider in all of Mexico and 3. I fell in Costco in Queretaro slipping on water on the floor and broke my hip. I have Medicare in the USA but it does you NO GOOD in Mexico. Period. Call me jaded but i cannot see paying for 2 health insurances at the same time. I am seriously considering stopping Medicare (after 3 years here) as it is useless here and why waste $200 a month? ," commented one expat who moved to Queretaro City and Tequisquiapan, Mexico.

"Again,the best hospitals are PRIVATE - CostaMed and Hospitan. They are both located on the main highway that runs between Tulum and Cancun. In case of an emergency you simply dial "911". Of course, depending on your emergency, a patient may be brought to one of the hospitals mentioned above until stabilized and possibly moved to Cancun -where there are larger facilities and more medical equipment," remarked one expat living in Playa Del Carmen.

"I live about 10 minutes from the hospital zone which is crammed with care facilities of every kind. One of the best is the Muguerza. There are many. Care is as good as anywhere in the world. The national system has specialist hospitals such as maternity, skeletal, cardiac, etc," commented one person.

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Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"There are many specialists in Puerto Vallarta and you can usually make an appointment within 2 days and the cost is about 500 pesos (less than $50)," commented one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

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Are common prescription medications available in Mexico?

"Pretty much. Cheaper than USA costs and many different pharmacies. Guadalajara and Aahorra," said one expat living in Queretaro City and Tequisquiapan.

"Most medicines are available without a prescription except for psychotropic and antibiotics. Generic medicines are freely available, this means that medicines in general cost a fraction of the price you'd be charged in, say, the USA," mentioned one expat in Monterrey.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Mexico. Many of the same medications that are available in the United States are also available in Mexico, although they may be sold under different brand names. In addition, some medications that are not available in the United States may be available in Mexico. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a Mexican doctor, while others may be available over the counter," commented one expat who moved to Mexico.

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

"All hospitals and clinics are 10-15 minutes from any point in the city. Many. many medical options to choose from. They have both public, which might be a long wait, and private, substantially below USA costs," said an expat in Merida.

"3 miles, there are 2, there is a Red Cross ambulance 2 blocks from my house and the fire dept (Bomberos) ambulance is 3 blocks away, we have a 911 system," commented one expat living in Puerto Penasco, Mexico.

"We have one major private hospital in Playa. This is a really important thing to me as the public hospitals are not up to par with what expats are accustomed to coming from the US, Canada or Europe. The care is really outstanding in the private hospitals with most doctors speaking fluent English. They are also required to have an additional level of training to be able to work in a private hospital. I have been retired for 15 years but I actually sell international health insurance to expats which allows us to use ANY PRIVATE hospital or doctor in the world. I got involved in this because I was hit by a taxi cab about 15 years ago while traveling and ended up in a public hospital. The conditions were so bad - no soap or toilet paper in the bathrooms - 50 people in a group room..... I never wanted to be in that situation ever again. That was when I went quest for international health insurance. It is something critical to have," wrote one expat.

"I am very close to the many pharmacies for medicines. Also there are bi-lingual doctors' offices in many places downtown. There are several hospitals nearby within a few miles. I have heard that the quality of care is very good. But, I have not had personal experience yet, thank goodness," commented one expat who moved to Playa del Carmen.

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

"I believe there is a public healthcare system for Mexican citizens, but I don't think it covers foreigners. Most people I have met seeking Mexican medical care travel to Mexico either because they can't afford care in the US or are seeking treatment that is inferior in the US. Most are paying out of pocket rather than through insurance, as Mexican care often costs less than the insurance would cost. Most visit clinics rather than hospitals, by researching the individual practitioners. Thus I have heard little about the quality of hospital care," commented one expat who moved to Tijuana.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Mexico, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Mexico is known as the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS). It provides a range of services, including preventive care, medical and surgical treatments, and hospitalization. The quality of care varies from region to region, but overall it is considered to be of good quality. The cost of care is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for those living in Mexico," said one expat.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Mexico. Access to healthcare has been limited due to the closure of many medical facilities, and the availability of medical supplies and personnel has been reduced. Additionally, the cost of medical care has increased, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need. Despite these challenges, the Mexican government has taken steps to ensure that the healthcare system remains functional, including providing financial support to medical facilities and increasing the availability of telemedicine services," remarked one expat in Mexico.

"Suffered a ruptured lung requiring surgery. treatment was outstanding and affordable," remarked one expat living in Xcalak.

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

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

"First, research local hospitals and doctors, and ensure that the facility is well-regarded and accredited. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the country’s maternity laws and parental rights in order to know your rights and to ensure that your baby is properly registered with the local authorities. It is also important to ensure that you have a reliable support network of friends and family to provide both physical and emotional support during this time. Finally, be sure to retain important records, such as all medical reports and any documents related to formal registration of the baby," explained one expat.

Are healthcare services good in Mexico?

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

"We have several hospitals here and are only 3 and a half hours from Guadalajara which has as good medical care as anywhere in the world. We had a friend who spent 3 weeks in intensive care in Guadalajara and the total cost was 35,000.00 dollars. Think of that in the US.. and she is well now," said one person in Manzanillo.

"Yes, I get 100% medical services such as Doctors, Hospitals, Operations & Medicines for free through the ISSTE system. My Wife was an English teacher at a Federal School so I was able to enter the system as her spouse," remarked one expat in Apizaco.

"The healthcare system in Mexico is largely divided into private and public services. Public healthcare is largely provided by the federal health system and is available to anyone who meets the country's numeric residency requirements. Private healthcare is often seen as the more reliable option, which generally requires health insurance or out-of-pocket payments. In general, healthcare in Mexico is quite advanced, with sophisticated medical technologies and well-trained medical professionals available in both public and private facilities. Mexico has made progress in recent years in prioritising the health and well-being of its citizens, with a significant emphasis on preventive care and public health initiatives, such as the introduction of new health insurance options," explained one expat living in Mexico.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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Welcome Home Mexico helps you find the perfect home in Mexico.
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