Does US health insurance cover you in Mexico?
Asked by: Terrill Hartmann | Last update: January 19, 2026Score: 4.9/5 (4 votes)
Can I use my U.S. health insurance in Mexico?
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.
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 happens if a U.S. citizen gets sick in Mexico?
EMERGENCY: If it's an emergency, you can call 911—same as in the United States. Ambulances in Mexico are typically private companies, and you may even have several ambulances arrive to try and compete for your business. Be warned that you may have to pay for them on arrival, privately owned ambulances aren't free.
Can I use my U.S. health insurance in another country?
Before you go, consider your insurance options.
U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas.
Health Insurance Options For Expats in 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).
Does Blue Cross cover you 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.
What if I have a medical emergency in Mexico?
What should I do if I have a medical emergency in Mexico? If you have a medical emergency in Mexico, you should call for help by dialing 911, go to the nearest hospital (preferably one that has English-speaking staff), and contact your insurance provider.
Do I need additional medical insurance when traveling abroad?
If you're traveling abroad, going on a business trip overseas or planning an expensive trip, travel insurance or travel protection may be a good choice for you. It's a way to be better prepared for the possibility that your trip may be interrupted or canceled or if you experience a medical emergency while away.
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).
Should I get health insurance to travel to Mexico?
While it's not legally mandatory to have health insurance while traveling in Mexico, travel medical insurance should be considered by all travelers to Mexico, even if they're only visiting for a short period.
Does AAA cover you in Mexico?
Since U.S. liability insurance is invalid in Mexico, you'll need proof of Mexico auto insurance for a road trip south of the border. AAA can help you get what's required through one of Mexico's largest and most reputable insurance companies.
How far into Mexico does insurance cover?
The Mexico Coverage Endorsement provides limited extension of coverage for accidents occurring in Mexico within 25 miles of the United States border while the insured is on a trip for 10 days or less.
Is U.S. insurance good in Mexico?
No, U.S. auto insurance policies aren't valid in Mexico. If you'll be driving in Mexico, even for a short time, auto insurance is required by Mexican law, and you could end up in jail if you're involved in an accident and don't have it.
Do Americans go to Mexico for healthcare?
Medical tourists from the United States most commonly travel to Mexico and Canada, and to several other countries in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The reasons people may seek medical care in another country include: Cost: To get a treatment or procedure that may be cheaper in another country.
How much does a doctor visit cost in Mexico?
How much does it cost to see a doctor in Mexico? Private doctor consultations typically cost $30-$70 USD without insurance. Emergency care or hospital stays will cost more. Many places expect payment on the spot.
What happens if you get sick in a foreign country?
Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover internationally?
As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, you take your healthcare benefits with you when you are abroad. Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors and hospitals around the world.
Does Medicare work in Mexico?
In most situations, Medicare won't pay for health care or supplies you get outside the U.S. The term “outside the U.S.” means anywhere other than the 50 states of the U.S., the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Do Mexican hospitals accept US insurance?
Such plans are beneficial but expats will have to spend money on buying an international plan. Do Mexican hospitals accept USA coverage? USA health insurance coverage is not accepted in private hospitals of Mexico. The same is applicable for Medicare as well.
Will I get sick if I go to Mexico?
Travelers' diarrhea commonly affects visitors to Mexico. Education is key to prevention; provide travelers with instructions on safe food and water precautions (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions).
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.
Does US health insurance cover 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.
Can I use my insurance in Mexico?
Mexican law requires that any vehicle operating on federal roads carries third-party liability insurance to provide coverage for damage caused in an at-fault accident. As stated earlier in this page, your US insurance policy will not cover your vehicle while driving in Mexico.
Does Blue Cross insurance cover urgent care?
BlueCross BlueShield covers a variety of urgent care services, including treatment for minor injuries, illnesses, lab tests, and preventive care.