Is healthcare in Mexico expensive?
Asked by: Randall Nienow DDS | Last update: January 21, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (37 votes)
How much does healthcare cost in Mexico?
Health Insurance in Mexico: Average Cost
The costs will vary depending on the type of medical insurance, level of cover, the number of family members covered, among other factors. Just as an estimate, the average cost is around 38,000 MXN (1,700 USD) a year, with a deductible of approximately 11,000 MXN (5,000 USD).
Is it expensive to see a doctor in Mexico?
Medical costs in Mexico are generally lower than in the United States and Europe, which is a significant draw for patients from these regions. To put this into perspective: A doctor's visit can average at about 400 pesos, which is around 20 US dollars.
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.
Does Mexico have a good healthcare system?
The majority of Mexican hospitals are excellent and are staffed by highly trained and often English-speaking doctors. However, some nursing and care staff might not speak English. Mexico has achieved universal health coverage and its public healthcare is used by most Mexican residents.
The real reason American health care is so expensive
Are doctors in Mexico better than us?
The question of quality is not settled. 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 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.
How much is an ER visit 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).
Can I use Medicare 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.
What happens if I need to go to the hospital in Mexico?
ER services at public hospitals in Mexico are free for residents enrolled in the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). However, for tourists or those not enrolled in IMSS, ER services come with charges. If you visit a private hospital, you'll need to pay out of pocket unless your travel insurance covers the costs.
Why is surgery so much cheaper in Mexico?
Another important factor that can explain this disparity in prices is overhead expenses. From heating and A/C to property costs, overheads are considerably lower. The cost of most Medical supplies is cheaper in Mexico too, despite being the exact same brands manufactured and used in the US and Europe.
Where is the best place in Mexico for medical care?
Cancun. Beyond its reputation as a tourist destination, Cancun is emerging as a healthcare hub, especially for medical tourism. The city's private hospitals provide a wide array of medical services, from advanced surgical procedures to comprehensive wellness check-ups.
Is Mexico a good place to live?
Mexico is known for its rich and vibrant culture, steeped in history and traditions. The Mexican people are warm, welcoming, and take pride in their strong sense of community. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a culture that values connection and embraces outsiders.
Is the ER expensive without insurance?
Some states are, of course, more expensive than others. Studies indicate that states like Maryland, Maine, and West Virginia tend to have lower, on average, ER costs, and states like California, New Jersey, and Florida tend to have higher on average ER costs.
Do hospitals in Mexico take insurance?
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. Unless you have a USA health plan that covers healthcare in Mexico, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for availing medical services.
Does Mexico have free healthcare for foreigners?
Healthcare System in Mexico
The services offered by IMSS are free of charge for its beneficiaries. For temporary residents and tourists, private healthcare is available in Mexico. There are many private hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality medical services.
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.
Does US 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.
Do foreigners have to pay hospital bills?
Since the United States does not have universal healthcare, visitors to the United States will be left paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses if they don't have travel medical insurance or have additional expenses that aren't eligible for coverage to pay for.
What's the number one cause of death in Mexico?
Most common cause of death in Mexico 2022
Deceases due to heart conditions were the most common causes of death in Mexico in 2022. During that period, more than 200,000 people died due to these diseases in the North American country. Diabetes mellitus ranked second, with over 115,000 deaths registered that year.
What do most people get sick from in Mexico?
Some diseases in Mexico—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.
What disease are Mexicans prone to?
Chronic liver disease.
This is a leading cause of death among Hispanic people. Although the exact cause is unknown, it can be the result of conditions such an alcohol use disorder, obesity, fatty liver disease from diabetes and exposure to hepatitis B and C viruses.