What to do if you get injured in Mexico?
Asked by: Clarissa Hane III | Last update: November 20, 2025Score: 4.9/5 (42 votes)
What happens if you get in an accident in Mexico?
If You Have Mexican Car Insurance
Your Mexican auto insurance company will help you after a car accident. Be sure to contact them as soon as possible. Call the police first! Your Mexican auto insurance policy will provide you with bail bond insurance, as well as accident insurance if you purchased that 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.
Can US citizens get medical care 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.
How much does a medical emergency cost in Mexico?
A doctor's visit can average at about 400 pesos, which is around 20 US dollars. The cost for emergency care typically starts at between 350-500 pesos (approximately 18-25 US dollars). Surgeries can cost around one-third of the price compared to the United States.
What the HECK to do If You Get in a Car Accident in Mexico?
Do you have to pay to go to the hospital in Mexico?
Although you can visit public hospitals in Mexico, as a foreigner, you'll likely need to pay for any medical services out of pocket unless your travel insurance covers the costs.
What happens if you get injured in another country?
If you have a medical emergency while abroad the cost may be covered by the travel insurance you purchased before your trip. Travel insurance is designed for things like emergency services, an air ambulance (to move you off of a cruise ship quickly in an emergency situation), or general medical bills.
Do hospitals in Mexico take American 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.
How safe is it to have surgery in Mexico?
Mexico has an excellent safety record as well as the highest success rates for weight loss surgery and cosmetics procedures. Here we will address what you need to watch out for when crossing the border to Mexico for your assurance.
Will my health insurance cover me 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.
How do I get emergency help in Mexico?
911 is Mexico's national emergency number and will give you the fastest response.
What happens if you have a medical emergency on vacation?
Check insurance coverage with your carrier and identify whether or not you're covered while traveling abroad. Most insurance, including Medicare, doesn't cover medical emergency evacuation back to the U.S., and this can be costly. Ask for advice on medical care while traveling.
Does a trip to the ER count as hospitalization?
You're an outpatient if you're getting emergency department services, observation services, outpatient surgery, lab tests, or X-rays, or any other hospital services, and the doctor hasn't written an order to admit you to a hospital as an inpatient.
What happens if you 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.
Does full coverage cover accidents in Mexico?
Get car insurance coverage for driving into Mexico
But, your U.S. car insurance policy likely does not cover you, your vehicle or your rental car if you get into a wreck in Mexico. That's where Mexico auto insurance for tourists can help.
How do I claim a body in Mexico?
Legal Requirements for Claiming a loved one's Body in Mexico
Be prepared to provide passports, birth certificates, or marriage certificates. When a U.S. citizen dies in Mexico, the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agent has to prepare a Report of Death from the local Mexican death certificate.
Are hospitals in Mexico safe for tourists?
Mexico is home to top hospitals and medical facilities with international accreditations and sterling reputations in all facets of patient care and safety.
Do I need a passport to have surgery in Mexico?
Are Passports Required to Travel to Tijuana? U.S. Citizens: Renew Bariatrics highly recommends patients use a passport, but it is not required if you're a U.S. citizen and going to Tijuana, Mexico. For patients traveling to Cancun, a passport is required.
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 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).
Where is the best place to go to healthcare in Mexico?
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico, and it is home to most of the best hospitals in the country. Other cities that have popular hospitals are Monterrey, Tijuana, and Guadalajara. In these cities, you can find hospitals with English-speaking staff and comprehensive specialties.
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.
What to do if I get sick in Mexico?
A few symptoms indicate that you should see a doctor immediately, either while in Mexico or after you've returned home. These include blood in your stool, a fever over 102 degrees, or compulsive vomiting for hours, such that you can't keep fluids of any kind down, risking dehydration.
Can a tourist go to the hospital?
If you require medical care while visiting the U.S., there are several options for seeking treatment. You can visit an urgent care center, walk-in clinic, or hospital emergency room for immediate medical needs.
Can you fly with an injury?
Minor Injuries: If you have sustained minor injuries, such as sprains, strains, or minor cuts, and you are in stable condition, you may be able to fly after seeking medical advice. Rest and appropriate treatment can allow for safe air travel.