Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Tijuana, Mexico

"Tijuana offers a variety of healthcare services to its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. Many of these facilities are equipped with modern medical technology and staffed by experienced professionals. Additionally, Tijuana is home to a number of pharmacies, where visitors can purchase over-the-counter medications and other health-related products. The city also has a number of alternative medicine practitioners, such as acupuncturists, herbalists, and homeopaths, who offer their services to those seeking alternative treatments," said one expat.

"Although I have met people having care for serious conditions, my experience has only been dental. People I know who had the same procedure done just across the border in San Diego had side effects I did not experience with my Mexican dentist," remarked one expat in Tijuana.

"Tijuana offers a wide range of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city is home to a number of hospitals and clinics that provide quality care and services to both local and international patients. Many of these facilities are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Additionally, Tijuana is home to a number of specialized medical centers that offer treatments for specific conditions, such as cancer, fertility, and plastic surgery. Patients can also access a variety of alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and traditional Chinese medicine," mentioned one expat in Tijuana.

"I only have Medicare part A. It is pretty much useless stateside or elsewhere. For a time I purchase dental insurance but gave it up because it's cost was higher than the cost of the care I received," said one expat living in Tijuana.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Tijuana can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Generally, basic healthcare services such as doctor visits and prescription medications are more affordable than in the United States, but more specialized treatments and procedures can be costly. Health insurance in Tijuana is also available, but it is often limited in scope and may not cover all medical expenses," mentioned one expat in Tijuana.

"I know of 3 hospitals in the area. Mexico General, Angeles Hosp. and Hospital Mexico are the ones I have heard of and I think 2 of them are public with nobody I have met telling horror stories, but I have not been to a hospital since the 80s and have not idea how one would get an ambulance. ," wrote an expat living in Tijuana.

"Emergency services in Tijuana are provided by the Mexican Red Cross. They offer medical assistance, firefighting, and rescue services. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 065 from any phone. The Mexican Red Cross also has a mobile app that can be used to request an ambulance. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices," said an expat in Tijuana.

"The bulk of people I have met getting medical care in Tijuana live in the US and travel to receive their care. Tijuana, as a large border town is easy to get to and has many Doctors and dentists. People don't generally care to be evacuated to go to a country with worse care. I no longer go there now that my major dental issue is over, and now that I have moved to a more distant place," wrote an expat living in Tijuana.

"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Tijuana. With thousands of doctors and dozens of state-certified specialty clinics, Tijuana has become a haven for medical tourists seeking low-cost, expert medical care. Highly specialized medical care is available through specialized centers, such as the American-backed Center for Digestive Health at San Javier Hospital or the Bariatric Center of Tijuana. These centers offer world-class medical services in the fields of bariatrics, gastroenterology, and general surgery. Additionally, the Mexican Council for Gastroenterology and the Center for Advanced Medical Investigations, located in Tijuana, provides both high tech diagnostics and innovative therapies," said an expat in Tijuana.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Tijuana. Many pharmacies in Tijuana offer a wide variety of medications, including those that require a prescription. These medications are typically sold at a lower cost than in the United States, making them an attractive option for those looking to save money. However, it is important to note that the quality of medications in Tijuana may not be as high as those found in the United States, so it is important to do research before purchasing any medications," said one expat.

"The farmacias have a huge stock of remedies. Most are fairly inexpensive. Many don't require a prescription. Others do. The only one I had difficulty finding required visiting 6 farmacias but the usual experience is finding what you need on the 1st try. ," remarked one expat in Tijuana.

"Tijuana has a variety of medical facilities and services available for visitors and residents. Medical care is available through a selection of hospitals and clinics offering general medicine, specialized treatment, and preventive care. For specific medical care, many medical facilities offer specialist services in areas such as internal medicine, pediatrics, oncology, cardiology, and obstetrics. Pharmacies are widespread throughout Tijuana, with over 4,000 locations providing medicines and health products to people of all ages. Dentists are also widely available, providing complete dental care from general dentistry to other specialized services. Tijuana is known for its affordable and high-quality healthcare, making it a popular destination for those seeking medical care abroad," commented one expat living in Tijuana, Mexico.

"I believe there is a public healthcare system for Mexican citizens, but I don't think it covers foreigners. Most people I have met seeking Mexican medical care travel to Mexico either because they can't afford care in the US or are seeking treatment that is inferior in the US. Most are paying out of pocket rather than through insurance, as Mexican care often costs less than the insurance would cost. Most visit clinics rather than hospitals, by researching the individual practitioners. Thus I have heard little about the quality of hospital care," commented one expat living in Tijuana, Mexico.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Tijuana, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Tijuana is generally considered to be of good quality, with many hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. However, it is important to note that the public healthcare system in Mexico is not free, and you will need to pay for any services you receive. Additionally, the public healthcare system in Mexico is not as well-funded as in other countries, so it is important to be aware of the limitations of the system," wrote one expat.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Tijuana. Access to healthcare has become increasingly difficult due to the limited resources available. Many hospitals and clinics have had to reduce their services and staff due to the financial strain of the pandemic. Additionally, the lack of personal protective equipment has made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide care safely. The long wait times for appointments and the limited availability of testing have also been a challenge for many people in the city. Despite these difficulties, the healthcare system in Tijuana has been doing its best to provide care to those in need," said an expat in Tijuana.