Health Care in Santa Marta

The healthcare system in Santa Marta is a mix of public and private providers. The public system, known as the General System of Social Security in Health (SGSSS), is available to all residents, including foreigners, while the private system offers a range of services for those who can afford it.

Colombia's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Colombia, the General System of Social Security in Health (SGSSS), is used by both locals and foreigners. It is generally recommended for minor health issues, but for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, private hospitals are often preferred. Public hospitals in Santa Marta, like most public hospitals in Colombia, can be crowded and have long wait times. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Colombia, but many choose to use private hospitals due to the higher standard of care and shorter wait times. Private hospitals in Santa Marta offer a high standard of care, with modern facilities and English-speaking staff.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Santa Marta

• Clínica Mar Caribe - A private hospital located in the city center.
• Clínica La Milagrosa - A private clinic specializing in maternity and pediatric care.
• Clínica Santa Marta - A private hospital offering a range of services.
• Hospital Universitario Fernando Troconis - A public hospital affiliated with the University of Magdalena.

In the event of a serious medical emergency, expats in Santa Marta may choose to travel to larger cities like Barranquilla or Bogota, which are approximately 2-3 hours and 1 hour by plane respectively.

Emergency Services in Santa Marta

There are ambulance services in Santa Marta. In case of an emergency, you can call 123 to request an ambulance. The response time can vary depending on the location and time of day, but generally, the service is reliable.

Health Insurance Companies in Santa Marta

There are several popular private health insurers in Santa Marta, including Seguros Bolívar, Colpatria, and Sura. These companies offer a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. Many expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, but some prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers that offer coverage in multiple countries.