Can an American see a doctor in Mexico?
Asked by: Natalie Deckow II | Last update: January 14, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (60 votes)
Can US citizens get medical care 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 visit a doctor in Mexico?
A simple doctor's office visit costs about 400 pesos or roughly US$20. Diagnostic tests can cost up to a third less in Mexico compared to the United States or Canada. However, costs can quickly add up for more complicated procedures.
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.
Can a US citizen get a prescription in Mexico?
For the most part, you can purchase prescription medications in Mexico without a prescription. You can also cross those meds back to the US. That's why thousands of people cross the border to Mexico – to purchase discount pharmacy drugs. Sometimes, the savings are up to 80% on certain meds from Mexico.
An American Gets Health Care Abroad
Are antibiotics over the counter in Mexico?
Pharmacists in Mexico cannot prescribe antibiotics. You will need a doctor's prescription, which you can obtain through a local medical center or an online doctor visit.
What medications can you bring back from Mexico?
You should travel only with your own medication that was prescribed to you by a licensed physician and/or legally obtained in the United States. In fact, in most cases, it's illegal for a U.S. citizen to obtain drugs from outside the U.S. and import for personal use.
How to see a doctor when traveling?
- 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.
Do Mexican hospitals accept American insurance?
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.
How much is a doctor visit without healthcare?
Without insurance, your doctor's visit can cost hundreds of dollars. On average, people in the U.S. pay just under $400 for their annual physical exam at a doctor's office if they don't have insurance. These costs include the provider fee for seeing the doctor and costs for any blood work or imaging that's needed.
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.
How much 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).
Does my U.S. insurance cover me in Mexico?
Your U.S. car insurance may offer limited coverage in Mexico, but it isn't valid there. You'll need a separate liability policy to meet the legal requirements in the country.
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 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 it safe to drink coffee 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 need to go to the doctor in another country?
The U.S. government does not pay overseas medical bills. The patient must pay all hospital and other expenses. You can find lists of doctors and hospitals in the country you are visiting. Check the website of the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting.
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).
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.
Can you fly with pills in a Ziploc bag?
The answer is yes, with some qualifiers. Here are a few tips that you might find helpful. It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form (See next bullet).
Can I bring Tylenol to Mexico?
You are allowed to bring enough medicine for the time period you will be in Mexico. If you are bringing an unusual quantity of medicine please bring a doctor's prescription just in case you need to prove the medicine is for your own consumption.
Will TSA check my pills?
Since your pills will go through the standard x-ray screening process, it is possible that a TSA officer may ask you about them, especially if they are considered controlled substances. Keeping a detailed list of your medications on your smartphone or in a pocketbook is the best way to know exactly what you have.