Healthcare and Health Insurance in Mexico City, Mexico

Summary: Mexico City, Mexico is home to a variety of hospitals and clinics, including the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán, the National Institute of Pediatrics, the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez, and the National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz. Emergency services are available in Mexico City, and ambulances can be called by dialing 066. The quality of medical care in Mexico City is generally comparable to that of the United States, though some specialized treatments may not be available.

How are healthcare services Mexico City?

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

"Healthcare services in Mexico City are well developed and easily accessible. Healthcare options include public, private and specialized facilities, offering services in areas such as medical care, emergency services, vision care, and preventative care. Many hospitals in Mexico City emphasize the importance of preventative care, promoting patient education about health maintenance to help prevent potential health issues. In addition, public health clinics in Mexico City provide primary health care services, such as immunizations, HIV/AIDS treatment and testing, laboratory services, and maternal and child health programs. Specialized services, such as oncology, neurosurgery and cardiac surgery are available at private hospitals in Mexico City, often at a cost-effective rate. Each neighborhood in the city also has an ambulance service, providing prompt emergency assistance for medical emergencies. Overall, healthcare services in Mexico City are comprehensive, and readily available to those in need," wrote one expat.

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What are medical services in Mexico City like?

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

"Mexico City has a wide range of medical services available for both locals and visitors. Many hospitals and health care facilities in the city offer specialist treatments, modern medical equipment and highly trained staff who speak English. Most of the hospitals are private, but there are several public institutions that provide quality healthcare with minimal waiting times. Medical specialists are also easily obtainable in Mexico City with a wide variety of services available such as dentistry, cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics. This makes it particularly popular among foreigners who are seeking quality healthcare at lower-costs. Mexico City is also home to a number of pharmacies, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications at substantially lower prices than in countries like the US or Canada," commented one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Traditional medicine is widely available and accessible in Mexico city. However, eastern and homeopathic medicine isn't as common and therefore not as reliable," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico City?

"Healthcare and health insurance can be expensive in Mexico City. Out-of-pocket costs are often expensive, especially if one needs specialized medical care. Private health insurance can help with out-of-pocket expenses, but premiums can be high, making it unaffordable for some. Additionally, private insurance companies often have extensive regulations and can be difficult to deal with. In recent years, Mexico has seen a rise in public health insurance programs, which can help to reduce overall expenses," commented one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

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What are emergency services like in Mexico City?

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

"In Mexico City, emergency services are widely available throughout the city, with many hospitals and fire stations in the area that are accessible from 911 or other emergency response numbers. To call for an ambulance in Mexico City, you can dial 066 from any landline or cell phone, or dial 911 from any landline. For more information or services, you can also call an ambulance directly from many local hospitals," commented one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Yes, there are a wide variety of medical specialists in Mexico City. Many hospitals located in Mexico City provide general and specialized care in a variety of medical fields such as cardiology, neurology, 9and oncology. For highly specialized medical care, patients typically go to specialty hospitals like referred center Cl??n?ca Angela Passage, which offers services in a variety of medical and surgical specialties, as well as in-vitro fertility treatments. Additionally, some of Mexico City's hospitals, such as Clinica Integral Medica and Hospital Español, offer the latest medical technology and equipment, allowing them to treat the most complex medical cases," remarked one expat in Mexico City.

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Are common prescription medications available in Mexico City?

"Yes, it is possible to access common prescription medications in Mexico City. Most prescriptions medications can be obtained from local pharmacies, as well as from stand-alone pharmacies or large pharmacy chains throughout the city. Additionally, many doctors are willing to provide prescriptions, which can be filled at the appropriate pharmacy. Mexican citizens typically require only a copy of their government-issued medical insurance card to access medications free of cost, while foreigners may need to present their prescriptions along with corresponding documentation such as a passport," said one expat.

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

"Medical facilities in Mexico City, vary across different districts, ranging from well-equipped private hospitals to overcrowded public facilities. Mexico City residents have access to a wide range of medical specialists, including doctors with both medical and surgical expertise. Despite this, medical care in Mexico City is generally considered to be of lower quality than what is available in other parts of the country. Many medical supplies and treatments can be hard to come by in Mexico City, with both cost and availability becoming an issue. It is common for those in need of advanced medical care to seek care outside the city," said one expat.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Mexico City, you will have access to public healthcare. Mexico City's public healthcare system is operated by the Secretariat of Health and its main goal is to ensure that all citizens and visitors have access to quality healthcare services. The public healthcare system offers a wide range of services from general medical care and specialized medical staff to laboratory tests and medical procedures. There are both public hospitals as well as clinics and community healthcare centers located throughout the city. Quality of care can vary depending on the facility so it is recommended to check reviews and ask for referrals before selecting a care provider," remarked one expat in Mexico City.

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

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

"I had a COVID test and that went well and the staff was professional. Thank God I have stayed healthy," commented one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

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

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

"1. Since the quality of care and availability of health services can vary greatly, it's important to research the options ahead of time to find the best and most appropriate provider for your family. 2. Many hospitals and clinics in Mexico City offer maternity services, so you may want to visit a few to get an idea of the available options. 3. Make sure to obtain the necessary documents and information so you can receive prenatal and post-natal care, as well as being informed about local laws regarding childbirth and family leave. 4. Finding reliable transportation to and from medical appointments can be tricky in Mexico City, as some places may have limited access to public transportation. Consider hiring a driver or arranging for a taxi service if needed. 5. It may be beneficial to hire a doula to help with the labor and birth process, as well as supporting any decisions you and your partner make. 6. Learn about the resources available for registering the baby's birth and for future baby care, including pharmacies, doctor offices, and even basic health care and vaccinations outside of the hospital setting. 7. Last but not least, don't forget to take care of yourself, as it's important to find the time and space to rest and also find support from other expat parents-to-be and local families," remarked one expat in Mexico City.

Are healthcare services good in Mexico City?

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

"Mexico City has a wide range of healthcare services available, providing citizens with access to quality medical care. The city is home to numerous public and private hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers, staffed by qualified professionals who offer a variety of treatment and prevention services. Mexico City also has several specialized medical centers for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Additionally, the city features pharmacies throughout where residents can purchase both generic and brand-name medications. The government of Mexico City is committed to providing its citizens with affordable healthcare, and as such provides many of its services free of charge or at discounted rates to those in lower-income brackets," explained one expat living in Mexico City.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Mexico City

How are healthcare services Mexico City?

What are medical services in Mexico City like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico City?

What are emergency services like in Mexico City?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Mexico City?

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

As a foreigner living in Mexico City, 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 Mexico City?

Are healthcare services good in Mexico City?

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