What to do if you are sick in Mexico?

Asked by: Dr. Christa King  |  Last update: November 6, 2023
Score: 4.6/5 (36 votes)

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 medicine to take if you get sick in Mexico?

Azithromycin (Zithromax) is typically used to treat traveler's diarrhea. Consult your doctor about taking these medications. It is important for an infected person to consult a doctor about treating diarrhea in children and infants, because some of the drugs mentioned above are not recommended for children.

What happens if I have a medical emergency in Mexico?

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.

Is healthcare free in Mexico for tourists?

Residents and citizens in Mexico are entitled to universal healthcare, but as a tourist you will likely have to use private healthcare options and be covered by private insurance. This is not to say a public hospital won't treat you, but you will probably have to pay up-front and have insurance cover.

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.

Getting Sick in Mexico

45 related questions found

Can Americans get medical treatment in Mexico?

The Healthcare System in Mexico

Mexico's best hospitals and clinics are based in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Many private clinics that cater for to Americans are located across the US border, in cities like Tijuana, Mexicali and Laredo.

How much does a doctor visit cost in Mexico?

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). A doctor's consultation will cost you approximately the same as a trip to the emergency room — around 400 MXN (18 USD).

Do you have to pay for hospital in Mexico?

Mexico's hospital system is a combination of private and government-operated hospitals and clinics, and almost all of them will quote the cost of treatment beforehand. This is a relief for most since you won't be faced with an exorbitant bill at the end, and costs must be paid before leaving the hospital.

Does my medical insurance cover 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.

Can you get good medical care in Mexico?

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.

What are the emergency medical services in Mexico?

GROUND AMBULANCE IN MEXICO
  • Ambulancias Asme Tijuana – 664-681-3237.
  • Ambulancias Delta 7 – 664-973-0303.
  • Ambulancias Medix 2000 – 664-608-9690.
  • AMU Ambulancias – 664-579-6549.
  • Central Ambulancias – 664-379-3379.
  • Paramedicos AC – 664-206-8361.
  • Rescate California AC – 664-166-0855.

Can the US Embassy help me get home?

Embassies can help travelers in limited and specific circumstances, including getting emergency passports and navigating certain serious emergencies. But embassies are no substitute for careful planning, travel insurance or medical evacuation plans.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Mexico?

Brushing Your Teeth

Residents in Mexico may brush their teeth with tap water, but they'll rinse and spit, careful not to swallow. As a tourist, you may be better off taking the precaution of using bottled water to brush your teeth, and do try to remember to keep your mouth shut when you shower.

Can you get antibiotics over the counter in Mexico?

Can I buy drugs and medications in Mexico without a prescription? You can buy most drugs and medications in Mexico Over the Counter (OTC), without a prescription, as long as they are not included in the list of “Controlled Medications, group I and group II”. In addition, you will need a prescription to buy antibiotics.

Why do I feel so sick in Mexico?

Alcohol and Overeating in Mexico

Often people will blame the water in Mexico for certain bouts of sickness when what is really the issue is over-indulgence in regards to alcohol and food. Keep in mind that salty, spicy foods and alcohol dehydrate you and so it is important that you compensate more thoroughly.

Does my American 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.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield 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.

Does Mexico take US insurance?

Yes, car insurance is required for visitors to Mexico, and your United States auto insurance policy won't be valid there. To be protected, you'll need to find specialized car insurance that covers you while you're in the country.

How much is urgent care in Mexico?

Depending on insurance status and whether SSM Health Mexico Urgent Care is in-network with your specific plan, an urgent care visit to this location may vary. Generally speaking, a co-pay for the visit itself will range from $35-75 with lab tests and other services possibly increasing that total.

What city in Mexico has the best medical care?

The very best hospitals in Mexico are in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey, which means if you need very specialized treatment, you might want to go there.

Do hospitals in Mexico take credit cards?

Hospitals in Mexico usually require payment up-front for services and will place holds on credit cards when a patient is admitted. The U.S. government does not pay for medical care overseas.

Who has better doctors USA or Mexico?

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 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.