Health Care in Jaco

The healthcare system in Jaco is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), provides comprehensive coverage to citizens and residents, while private healthcare offers an alternative for those seeking faster service or specialized care.

Costa Rica's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Costa Rica, the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), is available to all residents, including foreigners who have obtained residency status. The quality of care in public hospitals is generally good, but wait times can be long for non-emergency procedures. For serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people recommend private hospitals due to their shorter wait times and often more modern facilities. Public hospitals in Jaco, like elsewhere in Costa Rica, are typically busy and understaffed, but provide competent care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system if they are legal residents and contribute to the system. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs, especially for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Jaco

Jaco itself does not have a major hospital, but there are several clinics in the area. These include:

• Clínica de Jacó - a private clinic located in the center of Jaco.
• Clínica de Herradura - another private clinic, located in nearby Herradura.

For more serious medical needs, expats often travel to Hospital CIMA in Escazú, a private hospital located about an hour and a half away by car. This hospital is known for its high standard of care and wide range of specialties.

Emergency Services in Jaco

Emergency services are available in Jaco, with ambulances operated by the Red Cross. To call for an ambulance, you would dial 911. Response times can vary depending on the time of day and the nature of the emergency, but generally, the service is reliable.

Health Insurance Companies in Jaco

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Costa Rica that are commonly used by residents of Jaco. These include INS, the state-run insurance company, as well as international insurers like BlueCross BlueShield and BUPA. These companies offer a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. Many expats and digital nomads choose to use these companies for their health insurance, although some may also opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.