Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Last updated on Jun 08, 2024
Summary: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico is home to several hospitals and clinics, including Hospital San Miguel Arcangel, Hospital San Rafael, and Clinica San Miguel. Emergency services are available in San Miguel de Allende, and ambulances can be called by dialing 066. The quality of medical care in San Miguel de Allende is generally considered to be good, though it may not be as advanced as the medical care available in the United States.
How are healthcare services San Miguel de Allende?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in San Miguel de Allende, they replied:
"San Miguel de Allende offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, including family medicine, pediatrics, and dentistry. San Miguel de Allende also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are a number of holistic health centers that offer acupuncture, massage, and other natural therapies," said one expat.
What are medical services in San Miguel de Allende like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in San Miguel de Allende, they replied:
"Expat healthcare insurance for age 60+ is expensive and not great. To me, not worth it. Also Rx pain meds and psych meds extremely expensive & very difficult to legally obtain," said one expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
"San Miguel de Allende offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of private clinics and hospitals that provide quality care and services. Many of these facilities are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals who are knowledgeable in a variety of medical specialties. Additionally, the city has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. San Miguel de Allende also has a number of medical tourism companies that offer packages for visitors seeking medical care in the city," mentioned one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in San Miguel de Allende?
"Healthcare and health insurance in San Miguel de Allende can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, private health insurance is more expensive than public health insurance, but it can provide more comprehensive coverage. Public health insurance is available to Mexican citizens and permanent residents, and it can provide access to basic healthcare services at a lower cost. However, it may not cover all medical expenses, such as prescription drugs or specialist care. Additionally, some medical services may not be covered by either public or private health insurance, so it is important to check with the provider before receiving care," wrote an expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
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What are emergency services like in San Miguel de Allende?
When we asked about emergency services, members in San Miguel de Allende wrote:
"Emergency services in San Miguel de Allende are provided by the Cruz Roja Mexicana (Mexican Red Cross). In the event of an emergency, you can call 065 for an ambulance. The ambulance will be staffed with trained personnel and equipped with the necessary medical supplies. The ambulance will take you to the nearest hospital or clinic for treatment. In addition to the ambulance service, the Cruz Roja Mexicana also provides firefighting services, search and rescue operations, and first aid training," said one expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"San Miguel de Allende is a city with a range of medical specialists available. Depending on the medical condition, people can visit the local general practitioners and hospitals, or consult private medical services. In the event of needing specialized medical care, it is possible to find more specific offerings such as fertility clinics, oncology centers, and centers specializing in other specific medical areas in the city and its vicinity. Beyond San Miguel de Allende, people also go to Mexico City, which is the largest city in Mexico and offers a wide array of highly specialized care," wrote an expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
Are common prescription medications available in San Miguel de Allende?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in San Miguel de Allende. Most pharmacies in the city carry a wide variety of medications, including those for common ailments such as allergies, colds, and flu. Many of the medications are generic versions of popular brand-name drugs, and they are often much cheaper than their counterparts in the United States. Additionally, many pharmacies in San Miguel de Allende offer free consultations with a pharmacist, who can provide advice on the best medications for a particular condition," commented one expat living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in San Miguel de Allende?
"San Miguel de Allende offers medical facilities and medical care of a high standard. The city has both private and public hospitals and clinics that are staffed with experienced and qualified doctors and nurses. Patients have access to a range of medical services and treatments. For more specialized care, nearby Leon offers larger hospitals and treatment centers. In addition, there are a variety of pharmacies located throughout San Miguel de Allende, and patients can also find a number of traditional healers offering alternative treatments. In general, healthcare services in San Miguel de Allende are reliable, reasonably priced and easily accessible," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in San Miguel de Allende, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in San Miguel de Allende have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Mexico is known as the Seguro Popular, and it provides access to basic medical services for all citizens and legal residents. The Seguro Popular covers a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, hospitalization, and emergency services. The quality of care varies depending on the location, but overall it is considered to be of good quality. Additionally, there are a number of private healthcare providers in the area that offer more comprehensive services," said an expat in San Miguel de Allende.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in San Miguel de Allende if they have access to public healthcare in San Miguel de Allende. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The healthcare system in San Miguel de Allende has been strained during the pandemic, with many hospitals and clinics overwhelmed by the influx of patients. Despite this, the local healthcare system has been doing its best to provide quality care to those in need. The government has implemented strict safety protocols to ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare workers, including the mandatory use of face masks and social distancing. Additionally, the government has provided financial assistance to those who cannot afford medical care. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in San Miguel de Allende has been doing its best to provide quality care to those in need during the pandemic," wrote one expat.
"I literally fled Mexico in mid March of 2020 when the pandemic hit (after having lived there for two years). No way was I gonna stay during Covid. So glad I left. Will go back for long visits post pandemic," commented one expat who moved to San Miguel de Allende.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in San Miguel de Allende?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in San Miguel de Allende about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research pregnancy health care providers and protocols in advance, as they can vary from country to country. It may be beneficial to learn some basic Spanish to help when meeting with health care providers or communicating with local people who may not speak English. Consider asking your birth and postpartum care providers what their emergency protocols are, in case there are any complications. It is important to consider the availability of essential health care items such as newborn diapers, formula, and baby clothing in your region and make sure you have them in your home before giving birth. Joining an expat parents group or visiting an expat-friendly cafe or restaurant can provide you with access to a network of expat parents and sources of information about local resources and services," remarked one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
Are healthcare services good in San Miguel de Allende?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in San Miguel de Allende. They wrote:
"San Miguel de Allende offers a range of healthcare services. Medical centers in the city provide general medical care and many specialize in areas such as psychiatry, pediatrics, cardiology and gynecology. Expat residents can access well-equipped pharmacies that offer medicines and medical supplies. There are also Advanced Trauma Life Support certified doctors in the city. The two private hospitals in San Miguel de Allende offer modern facilities and technology, as well as 24-hour emergency services. In addition to these services, there are several smaller clinics and walk-in centers in the city that provide basic services for patients," remarked one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
"Yes, in San Miguel and Queretero nearby we have excellent care and it’s reasonably priced," explained one expat living in San Miguel de Allende .
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to San Miguel de Allende
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in San Miguel de Allende
- Health Care in San Miguel de Allende
- The Essential Guide to San Miguel de Allende
- 5 Tips for Living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico
- Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Banking Tips for Expats in Mexico
- What It's Like Living in San Miguel de Allende
- Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Mexico
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico