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Expat Exchange - Health Care in San Juan del Sur 2024
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Health Care in San Juan del Sur

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Learn about the health system in San Juan del Sur: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in San Juan del Sur.

San Juan del Sur has both public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is called the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute (INSS). It is used by both locals and foreigners, although foreigners may need to pay a fee. People generally do not recommend using public hospitals in San Juan del Sur for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as the facilities are often lacking in resources and the quality of care is not always up to par. At a public hospital in San Juan del Sur, the wait times can be long and the facilities are often overcrowded. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Nicaragua, although they may need to pay a fee.

Expats and digital nomads typically use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in San Juan del Sur are generally better equipped and have better quality of care than public hospitals. The most popular private hospitals in San Juan del Sur are Hospital Metropolitano, located in the center of town, and Hospital San Juan de Dios, located in the nearby town of Rivas. Both hospitals offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical care.

Emergency Services in San Juan del Sur

San Juan del Sur does not have an ambulance service, but there are several private companies that offer medical transportation services. These companies can be contacted by phone or through their websites. The response time can vary, but generally they arrive quickly.

Health Insurance Companies in San Juan del Sur

The most popular private health insurers in San Juan del Sur are Seguros Monterrey, Seguros Atlas, and Seguros La Previsora. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including basic coverage and more comprehensive plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although there are also specialized expat health insurance providers available.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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