Health Care in Quepos

Quepos is home to a variety of healthcare options for both locals and expats. The public healthcare system is widely used by locals and is available to foreigners, while private hospitals and clinics are also available for those who prefer a more personalized experience.

Costa Rica's Healthcare System

Costa Rica's public healthcare system is known as the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS). It is available to all Costa Rican citizens and legal residents, including foreigners. While the public healthcare system is generally considered to be of good quality, it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Quepos are often crowded and understaffed, and the wait times can be long. However, foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Costa Rica, and many expats do so.

For those who prefer a more personalized experience, there are several private hospitals and clinics in Quepos. Clinica Quepos is a private clinic located in the center of town, and it offers a wide range of services, including general medicine, dentistry, and laboratory services. Hospital Quepos is a private hospital located just outside of town, and it specializes in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. There are also several private clinics located in nearby towns, such as Hospital San Rafael in San Isidro and Hospital San Lucas in San Lucas.

Emergency Services in Quepos

Quepos does not have its own ambulance service, but there are several private ambulance services in the area. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 or contact the local police station. Ambulance services in Quepos are generally reliable, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.

Health Insurance Companies in Quepos

The most popular private health insurers in Quepos are Blue Cross Blue Shield, Seguros Monterrey, and Mapfre. These companies offer a variety of plans, including basic health insurance, dental insurance, and travel insurance. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.