Health Care in San Pedro

The healthcare system in San Pedro is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is accessible to both locals and foreigners, while the private healthcare system is often preferred by expats and digital nomads for its higher quality of service.

Belize's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Belize is known as the National Health Service (NHS). It is used by both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals instead. Public hospitals in San Pedro are generally well-equipped but may not offer the same level of comfort and service as private hospitals. Expats primarily use private hospitals due to their higher standards of care and more advanced facilities. Private hospitals in San Pedro are known for their modern equipment and highly trained staff, making them a preferred choice for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in San Pedro

San Pedro has a number of clinics and hospitals that are recommended for expats. These include:

• Ambergris Hopes Clinic (Private, located in San Pedro Town)
• Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II (Public, located in San Pedro Town)
• San Carlos Medical Clinic (Private, located in San Pedro Town)

In case of specialized medical care or surgeries, expats often travel to Belize City where there are larger hospitals such as Belize Healthcare Partners Limited and Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Belize City is approximately 53 miles from San Pedro, a journey that can take around 1.5 hours by car.

Emergency Services in San Pedro

San Pedro has ambulance services available. In case of an emergency, you can dial 911 for an ambulance. The response time can vary depending on the location and time of the call, but generally, the services are reliable.

Health Insurance Companies in San Pedro

There are several popular private health insurance companies in San Pedro, including Atlantic Insurance Company, RF&G Insurance, and Belize Insurance Centre. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans to suit different needs and budgets. While some expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, many prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers that offer international coverage.