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Zihuatanejo, Mexico

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:

"Be sure to have travel insurance... helps to speak Spanish to communicate more freely with the caregivers, however someone there will speak English," commented one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

" It depends on finances and age. If you're a professional moving to Mexico for business reasons, then you'll no doubt be given a private insurance plan. For those still young, private insurance is cheaper than in the USA but still ultimately unaffordable. Those working for public or private sector employers should automatically be enlisted in the IMSS which is our national system free to the user. Roughy equivalent to the UK's NHS, if you need something major it is excellent. For minor problems you may care to go private. Besides the IMSS, if you're not working you can enroll in the govenment's Seguro Popular system which is probably a bit inferior to the IMSS but again will protect you against major events. Next, I recommend paying monthly to subscribe to a private ambulance/outpatient service such as EMME. The price is reasonable and they come quickly with a fully equipped ambulance and medical team. They also have an outpatient walk-in centre open until late. Most pharmacies have an attached doctor available during work hours (sometimes morning only) and you can get a quick consultation either free or at insignificant cost - very useful if you need an antibiotic because these need a prescription now. ," wrote one expat.

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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," mentioned one expat 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," commented one expat who moved to Coatepec, Mexico.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico?

"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," wrote an expat living in Playa Del Carmen.

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What are emergency services like in Mexico?

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

"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," wrote an expat living in Monterrey.

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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)," wrote an expat living in Puerto Vallarta.

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Are common prescription medications available in Mexico?

"Farmacia Guadalajara is a chain, so you are reasonably sure of the quality of the drugs and since their prices are standardized, chain-wise, you are reasonably sure that you are not paying the gringo price at one of the tourist pharmacies. Many common drugs available. Also Freddy's on Olas Altas," wrote one expat.

"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.

"Common prescriptions in the US do not require prescriptions in Mexico. There is an abundance of pharmacies everywhere in Mexico. Prices can vary greatly so it pays to shop around. Similares Pharmacies only offer generic brands and offer a further discount on Mondays. In general the cost of medicine is much cheaper in Mexico. All antibiotics require a prescription. ," said one expat.

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

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

"Medical facilities and care in Mexico vary greatly depending on location and type of healthcare provider. Generally speaking, there are good quality hospitals and clinics throughout the country that provide comprehensive medical care. The quality of government-funded public healthcare can vary, however, those with access to private care receive satisfactory treatment from healthcare professionals. Mexico also has a large number of highly qualified specialists that can provide top-notch care in many critical areas of medicine. In addition, the country has access to cutting-edge technology and treatments," wrote one expat.

"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 who moved to Puerto Penasco.

"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," said one expat.

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

"I have no idea. Getting to a Dr. in Tequisquiapan is easy. You just ask someone where a good Dr. is and that is where you go. The best Drs are at their private hospitals," said an expat in Queretaro City and Tequisquiapan.

"As an expat, MOST people will purchase their own Expat Insurance which covers you in any PRIVATE HOSPITAL and allows you to use ANY DOCTOR you wish. Some policies can be quite expensive but others are actually very reasonably priced. For example a mother of 52 with two girls 11 and 13 pays about USD $1900 a year and the coverage INCLUDES the United States. only about $1000 EXCLUDING the United States. This is with a $1000 deductible. This is about the minimum starting point. But, the price of US coverage is just a FRACTION of what you would pay if you lived in the United States. Private insurance will typically exclude pre-existing conditions, but this is on a case-by-case basis. If you work in Mexico, you will have basic medical coverage called IMSS. All employers are required to pay into the system and it is like a socialized form of medical care for Mexico. It is BASIC because IMSS hospitals are not extravagant and will require you to produce a lot of paperwork and will also require a lot of time and patience. There is also health care for the poorest of the poor. In order to enroll you will be asked certain questions like - "is your floor dirt or tile", "do you own a tv"? If you have the means, I would recommend going Private as I can not recommend the public system or hospitals. If you are from the US, you will not be accustomed to the public hospitals and having to deal with the mountains of paperwork in Spanish. ," commented one expat living in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico.

"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," wrote one expat.

"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.

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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...

"Suffered a ruptured lung requiring surgery. treatment was outstanding and affordable," said one expat.

"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.

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," remarked one expat in Mexico.

Are healthcare services good in Mexico?

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

"We have not had to use hospital services as of yet. However, Guadalajara has exceptional hospitals that are affordable and an hour away. Local dentist and medical services receive high marks from those living here any length of time," remarked one in Ajijic.

"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.

"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.

"A few weeks ago I used my GEHA (government employees health association) insurance at Hospital San Antonio. Well I should say I tried to use it. At first the staff at Hospital San Antonio said that my entire emergency would be covered but they charged my $25000 USD UP Front and I had to pay it or the administrative staff there told me they would send me to a public hospital in the worst part of Guadalajara. They bullied me and I felt so uncomfortable but I was not in a position to fight. I paid the up front fee and then on discharge they just deducted it from the bill which I still had to pay and they gave me a bill with codes to submit to my insurer for reimbursement...such lies and thieves trying to trick people about accepting insurances. I will never go back to Hospital San Antonio in Tlyacapan," remarked one expat in Lake Chapala.

"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," explained one expat living in Apizaco.

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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.

Zihuatanejo, Mexico
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