Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Cali, Colombia

"Cali offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services. Primary care services are provided by general practitioners, pediatricians, and family physicians, while specialty care services are provided by specialists in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Hospital services include emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient care. Additionally, Cali has a number of public and private health centers that provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings," wrote one expat.

"Cali offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while the private hospitals and clinics offer more specialized services and treatments. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores throughout the city, providing access to a variety of medications and medical supplies. Overall, Cali provides a comprehensive range of medical services to meet the needs of its citizens," wrote one expat.

"Many specialists are US trained, speak English and seem to be quite competent. As a former bio-med technician familiar with lots of medical equipment I find many state of the art medical devices are used here," commented one expat who moved to Cali.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Cali can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, basic health insurance plans are more affordable than comprehensive plans, but they may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of healthcare services can vary depending on the provider and the type of care needed. In general, it is important to research the different options available to find the best coverage and cost for one's individual needs," remarked one expat living in Cali.

"Emergency services in Cali are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 123 from any phone. This number is free and connects to the emergency services dispatch center. The operator will ask for the location of the emergency and will send an ambulance as soon as possible," wrote an expat living in Cali.

"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Cali. People in the city have access to a wide range of medical specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and orthopedists. For highly specialized medical care, people in Cali often go to the University of Valle Hospital, which is one of the most advanced medical centers in the country. The hospital has a team of highly trained specialists and offers a wide range of treatments and procedures. Additionally, the hospital has a specialized unit for cancer treatment and a dedicated unit for pediatric care," wrote an expat living in Cali.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Cali. Most pharmacies in the city carry a wide variety of medications, including those used to treat common illnesses such as colds, flu, and allergies. Many pharmacies also carry medications used to treat more serious conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, many pharmacies also carry medications used to treat mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety," wrote one expat.

"Cali has a wide range of medical facilities and medical care available. The city has several public and private hospitals, as well as a number of specialized clinics and medical centers. The quality of care is generally good, with many doctors and nurses having received training abroad. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores, making it easy to access the necessary medications and supplies. In addition, the city has a number of medical tourism options, allowing visitors to receive medical care at a fraction of the cost of care in the United States," remarked one expat living in Cali.

"Yes, foreigners living in Cali have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Colombia is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system in Cali is well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals, providing quality care to all patients," said an expat in Cali.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Cali. Many hospitals have been overwhelmed with the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and limited access to medical care. Additionally, the lack of resources has made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care to those in need. The government has implemented various measures to help alleviate the strain on the healthcare system, such as providing additional funding and expanding access to telemedicine services. Despite these efforts, the pandemic has still had a major impact on the healthcare system in Cali, Colombia," wrote an expat living in Cali.

"I left Colombia for a visit to see my friends and family in the US during the Covid-19 pandemic. Reports from contacts indicate that many Colombian citizens are dissatisfied with the rollout of vaccines," said an expat in Cali.