Health Care in Tela

The healthcare system in Tela, consists of both public and private facilities. While the public system is accessible to foreigners, the quality of care may not be up to the standards expected by expats and digital nomads, who often opt for private hospitals and clinics.

Honduras's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Honduras is called the Honduran Social Security Institute (IHSS). It is available to both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, public hospitals in Tela may not be recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to limited resources and long waiting times. Public hospitals in Tela are often crowded, and the quality of care may not be up to the standards expected by foreigners. On the other hand, private hospitals and clinics are more commonly used by expats, as they offer better facilities and higher quality care. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they are better equipped and staffed to handle such cases.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Tela

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Tela include:

• Centro de Salud Tela (public) - located in the city center
• Clínica Santa Mónica (private) - located in the Barrio El Centro area
• Clínica San Francisco (private) - located in the Barrio El Centro area

If there are no suitable hospitals in Tela for specialized medical care or surgeries, expats may need to travel to larger cities such as San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa. These cities are approximately 3-4 hours away by car from Tela.

Emergency Services in Tela

Ambulance services are available in Tela, but they may not be as reliable or prompt as those in more developed countries. To call for an ambulance, dial 911. However, it is important to note that there may be delays in response times, and it is sometimes faster to arrange private transportation to a hospital in case of an emergency.

Health Insurance Companies in Tela

Popular private health insurance companies in Tela include Seguros Atlántida, Seguros Crefisa, and Seguros del País. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater to their specific needs. It is essential to research and compare different insurance options to find the best coverage for your individual situation.