Do Mexican hospitals take American insurance?

Asked by: Ephraim Daniel  |  Last update: August 10, 2023
Score: 4.6/5 (62 votes)

Can I Use My US Health Insurance in Mexico? No, in most cases, you will not be able to use the health insurance you have in the US for treatment in Mexico. Your American health insurance policy, such as Medicare, will not extend outside the borders.

Can an American get healthcare in Mexico?

Foreign residents (temporary or permanent) can apply for the Mexican public healthcare insurance system known an IMSS on a voluntary basis which provides access to certain doctors, clinics and hospitals in Mexico. Some medications are also covered under this plan.

What happens if you need to go to the hospital in Mexico?

A lot of people don't know that most hospitals here won't take an insurance assignment. That means that even if you have insurance, you'll have to pay to get released from the hospital and file a claim with your insurer to be reimbursed later. Most hospitals request a deposit by credit card when you are admitted.

Does Mexico take health insurance?

Mexico has achieved universal health coverage and its public healthcare is used by most Mexican residents.

Do you have to pay hospital bills in Mexico?

Mexico's hospital system is a mix of government operated hospitals and clinics blended with private hospitals and virtually all will quote the cost of treatment in advance. No surprise huge bills at the end and costs must be paid before leaving the hospital. For elective procedures, payment is generally paid up front.

A Look at Private Health Care in Mexico

19 related questions found

Do Mexican hospitals accept Medicare?

You cannot use Medicare in Mexico because Medicare coverage does not pay for health care or supplies you get outside the U.S. This means if you are traveling in Mexico or residing there permanently, your Medicare benefits will not remain in effect.

Does Blue Cross cover medical in Mexico?

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan has you covered worldwide. If you need medical care outside the U.S, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands you can rest assured that the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan offers worldwide coverage.

Do you need medical insurance when traveling to Mexico?

Travel insurance is not currently required for all of Mexico. However, travel insurance with medical coverage is required for visitors to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. This insurance is to protect travelers against any unforeseen medical event, including those derived from COVID-19 contagion.

Is Mexico's health Care Free?

Public healthcare has an elaborate provisioning and delivery system instituted by the Mexican government. It is provided to all Mexican citizens, as guaranteed by Article 4 of the Constitution. Public care is fully or partially subsidized by the federal government, depending upon the person's employment status.

How much does the ER cost in Mexico?

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).

What if I get sick in Mexico?

Unlike in the U.S., going to the doctor in Mexico is inexpensive and quick. For those wondering What to do when you get sick in Mexico — the answer is go see a doctor ASAP! If you find yourself sick in Mexico, open Google Maps, find one of the big chain pharmacies near you, and go straight there.

What to do if you have an emergency in Mexico?

911 is Mexico's national emergency number and will give you the fastest response.

Can I use my US health insurance in another country?

U.S. health insurance plans typically do not cover regular and routine medical care required overseas. This means your health insurance won't pay for care if you need to visit a doctor for a prescription medicine, or if you need treatment for a condition that is not considered an emergency.

What to do if I need a doctor in Mexico?

Doctors in Mexico

If you are visiting Mexico for leisure, ask your hotel or resort to call a doctor if you need one. Searching on Google from your location-enabled smartphone will also provide you with a list of local doctors and clinics and some might also have reviews listed.

What insurance is mandatory in Mexico?

Liability car insurance in Mexico

You are required by Mexican law to have liability insurance. If you cause a car accident, this covers bodily injuries and property damage to others.

Why is Mexico travel insurance so expensive?

Cheap travel insurance for Mexico

Worldwide travel insurance is considerably more expensive than domestic or European policies due to the potential medical costs in foreign countries. You can still find affordable cover, though. If you're travelling with your partner a couples travel policy could be cheaper.

Can foreigners get health insurance in Mexico?

The Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social or IMSS is Mexico's national healthcare program. 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.

Does my full coverage insurance cover me in Mexico?

Your U.S. auto insurance won't cover you after crossing the border of Mexico. You'll need a special Mexican auto insurance policy to legally drive in Mexico, which can be acquired through an insurance agent.

Do doctors in Mexico take Medicare?

The most common question from US citizens looking to travel or retire in Mexico is whether their Medicare coverage is valid here. The simple answer is no. Medicare is only available to citizens and permanent residents of the USA who are residing in the USA.

Is it worth it to get travel health insurance?

Bottom line. There are perks to having travel insurance. It can be worth buying for international trips in case a medical or family emergency causes you to suddenly cancel the rest of your trip. By only spending a couple of hundred dollars, you'll potentially save yourself thousands of dollars.

Does Medicaid cover you in Mexico?

For more information on health, visit our page on Your Health Abroad. Before you go, consider your insurance options. In general, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas.

What is Medicare equivalent in Mexico?

Mexico's IMSS coverage

As an alternative to Medicare, some foreign residents in Mexico opt to take Mexico's government-sponsored IMSS health coverage under an insurance program that charges based on age-brackets; typically between US$50-$70 per month for someone of retirement age.

Does Plan N cover foreign travel?

Some Medicare Supplement insurance policies (also known as Medigap) do offer coverage for emergencies when traveling out-of-country. Medicare Supplement plans C, D, F, G, M and N cover some travel-abroad emergency help. No other Medicare Supplement plans provide foreign travel emergency coverage.