Is medical care expensive in Mexico?

Asked by: Esta Eichmann  |  Last update: September 20, 2023
Score: 4.8/5 (3 votes)

Overview of Healthcare in Mexico
First-rate hospitals can be found in most medium to large cities in Mexico. One of the advantages is that the cost of treatment in Mexico is typically half of or less than what you'd expect to pay in the US. The price difference also applies to prescription drugs.

How much does healthcare cost in Mexico?

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).

Does Mexico have good medical care?

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.

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.

Shocking Costs of Medical Care in Mexico: Is it Too Good to Be True?

42 related questions found

Is my US health insurance good in Mexico?

Does US health insurance work in Mexico? Most United States health insurance providers do not cover travel overseas, including to Mexico, but you should check with your carrier to be sure.

What are the disadvantages of healthcare in Mexico?

Mexico's healthcare system is underfunded and inadequately organized to meet the needs of its population in light of increasing longevity and the growing challenges created by the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and cancer.

Are Mexican doctors better than US doctors?

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.

Is it cheaper to go to the doctor in Mexico?

To see a general doctor, you can expect to pay less. Somewhere between $50-$400 MXN (about $2.50 USD-$20 USD). Medications in Mexico also tend to be much, much cheaper. And most of the medications you would need a prescription for in the U.S. you can get in Mexico over the counter.

What is the average hospital bill in Mexico?

Health Care Costs in Mexico Are High

For example, you can expect to pay $10000 for a complete medical check-up, and more than $15000 for an MRI. Hospitalization in Mexico can be very expensive as well. Hospitals in large cities (Ciudad de México, Monterrey, Guadalajara) often charge higher rates than one would expect.

Is a hospital stay in Mexico expensive?

Healthcare services in Mexico are excellent and far less expensive than in the United States, so it's no surprise that medical tourism is thriving in Mexico. The hospital systems blends private and public institutions, with transparent charges and pricing.

How much is an MRI in Mexico?

The least expensive MRI in Mexico is $525 for a MRI Foot, Ankle, Leg, Hip (Lower Extremity) while the most expensive MRI list price is $1,500 for a Brain MRI. There are 4 different types of MRI provided in Mexico, listed below, and the price for each differs based upon your insurance type.

Is it a good idea to get surgery in Mexico?

The truth is that plastic surgery in Mexico is safe and effective when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon at an accredited facility. In order to become a plastic surgeon in Mexico, doctors must complete extensive training and pass rigorous exams, and surgery facilities need to be cleaned and checked regularly.

Can Americans see doctors in Mexico?

Americans have been traveling across the border for cheaper medical care for decades. Having said that, good doctors and bad doctors exist everywhere. Tijuana is a 'you get what you pay for' kind of place. For common problems and minor treatments, any clinic should be able to fix you up without any problems.

How much do doctors make in Mexico in US dollars?

On average, physicians in the U.S. earned the most ($316,000) per year, followed by Germany ($183,000) and the U.K. ($138,000). Physicians in Mexico earned the least at $12,000.

Where does Mexico rank in medical care?

On an international scale, Mexico is ranked at 61 in the WHO's league table of countries for the performance of its health care system.

What is the most common health problem in Mexico?

The major health concern in Mexico is Obesity. In Mexico, 32.4% of the population is obese, making it the country with the 2nd highest prevalence of obesity, behind the US. The country also has the highest prevalence of diabetes in the OECD, with 15.9% of the population having diabetes.

Why do people go to Mexico for medical treatment?

Woodman estimates U.S. residents getting medical care in Mexico can save 40% to 60% off the cost of similar procedures or operations at U.S. hospitals or clinics. "People in the United States need access to cost-effective medical care," Woodman said. '"The U.S. has priced itself out of the market."

Does Medicare cover me in Mexico?

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.

Does my Blue Cross Blue Shield cover me 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.

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.

Do I need health insurance when traveling to Mexico?

There are currently no requirements that require U.S. citizens to carry medical or travel insurance as a condition of entering the country. However, since Mexico is still considered a developing country, many Americans purchase travel insurance before going.