Can Americans see doctors in Mexico?
Asked by: Fermin Stamm | Last update: October 19, 2025Score: 5/5 (71 votes)
Can US citizens get healthcare in Mexico?
US citizens living and working in Mexico may be eligible for healthcare in Mexico under the IMSS, which is the healthcare system provided under Mexico's private employment sector. If you have legal residency and are self-employed there, you can opt-in to the system voluntarily.
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Mexico?
Mexico Health Care Facts
An emergency room visit can charge you between 350 and 500 MXN (15 and 25 USD). A doctor's consultation costs approximately around 400 MXN (18 USD).
What happens if an American gets sick in Mexico?
Medical Care Abroad
See our Local Resources page to find a medical resource in Mexico. If an American citizen becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, the embassy or consulate can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends.
What happens if I need to go to the hospital in Mexico?
Once you enter a hospital or emergency department in Mexico you will typically be required to sign a release of legal redress. Pay attention to details about the paperwork you receive, whether there is a signature line for you or your insurance company.
More Middle Americans visit Mexico for low-cost medical care
Can an American see a doctor in Mexico?
Finding an English-speaking doctor in Mexico is easier than you might think, especially in popular tourist areas such as Mexico City, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen. These regions often have private doctors who attend to international tourists, ensuring language is not a barrier to receiving medical care.
Where is the best place to go to healthcare in Mexico?
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico, and it is home to most of the best hospitals in the country. Other cities that have popular hospitals are Monterrey, Tijuana, and Guadalajara. In these cities, you can find hospitals with English-speaking staff and comprehensive specialties.
How to see a doctor while travelling?
- Advice hotlines. Many insurance providers include access to a 24-hour hotline that you can call for medical advice. ...
- Virtual care. ...
- Walk-in clinics at drugstores. ...
- Urgent care centers.
What to avoid in Mexico to not get sick?
Remind travelers that tap water in Mexico is not potable; that they should avoid consuming unpasteurized, often artisanal, dairy products, particularly soft or fresh cheeses; and that they should avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or fish, leafy greens, or raw vegetables.
Does U.S. health insurance work in Mexico?
When moving to Mexico, you do not have to leave your U.S. medical insurance behind. Many insurance providers offer international coverage or have partnerships with healthcare facilities in Mexico, ensuring that you can continue using your existing insurance while enjoying the benefits of living in Mexico.
Is it safe to get antibiotics in Mexico?
Can I buy and bring back Mexican antibiotics to the US? Yes, you can buy and take back antibiotics to the US, such as Penicillin or Amoxicillin. However, you can't buy nor bring back stronger antibiotics such as Cipro. These are part of pharmacy meds under the controlled substance list.
How good are doctors in Mexico?
Experts say that some hospitals, doctors and clinics are comparable to the U.S. but that quality varies widely. Some studies find that patient satisfaction with Mexican providers is generally good while others find the care needs improvement.
What to do if you get hurt in Mexico?
Assess the injury and seek medical attention if necessary. Call 911 for emergency services in Mexico. information specific to the incident. For example, a vehicle registration number in a road traffic accident.
What happens if you can't pay a hospital bill in Mexico?
There have been cases where people have been unable to withdraw cash or have sufficient cash to pay their hospital bills. And then, these hospitals have taken their passport or resident card until they can pay off their bill. It's not always the case, but you must ask this beforehand if you can do so.
Can a U.S. citizen use Medicare in Mexico?
American expatriates living in Mexico cannot use Medicare because it is a United States insurance scheme designed only for residents in the U.S. and its approved territories. U.S. expats will need to either enroll in one of Mexico's public health schemes or purchase private health insurance.
What not to eat in Mexico as a tourist?
Avoid eating raw meat or seafood, including items “cooked” with citrus juice, vinegar, or other acidic liquid (such as ceviche).
Is coffee safe to drink in Mexico?
Pasteurized, fermented or carbonated. All three processes kill bacteria, or inhibit its growth. Coffee, hot tea, canned soda and juice, beer, wine and alcohol are all a safe bet.
Is ice cream safe to eat in Mexico?
Other generally safe items include dry bread, syrups, jellies and jam. This study points out that desserts, especially ice cream, are another specific food item to avoid. The authors generalize their findings to ice cream desserts served in other developing countries, not just Mexico.
What happens if you have a medical emergency in a foreign country?
Health Care Resources for Travelers
The nearest US embassy or consulate can help travelers locate medical services and notify your friends, family, or employer of an emergency. They are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, overseas and in Washington, DC (888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444).
Should I carry my medicare card when traveling internationally?
Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover you overseas. It depends on your specific plan, so contact your Medicare provider for more information. Also, be sure to bring a copy of your Medicare and health care insurance cards with you when you travel so you have that information at the ready if you need it.
What to do if your doctor is on vacation?
While there is no law mandating a physician provide "back up or cross covering" care when he/she is unavailable, most physicians do have emergency coverage available when they are unavailable, whether it be with another physician or directing the patient to Urgent Care or to a hospital's emergency department.
How do Americans get healthcare in Mexico?
Foreigners who are living and employed in Mexico are eligible for IMSS coverage. It is a popular resource for working expats with a temporary or permanent residency visa. The advantage of IMSS health coverage is it's very affordable, only costing approximately $500 per year for residents.
What city in Mexico is the safest for surgery?
Tijuana is, by far, is the best city for medical tourism because of incredible surgical talent. Tijuana is home to some of the best board-certified bariatric surgeons in Mexico. Tijuana has rapidly emerged as a premier destination for medical tourism, particularly due to its exceptional surgical expertise.
How much is a hospital bill in Mexico?
Mexico Health Care Facts
Health care costs vary depending on several factors, such as the hospital, the seriousness of the condition, and the location, among others. To give you an idea, for an emergency room visit you can expect to pay a basic sum of between 350 and 500 MXN (15 and 25 USD).