As a foreigner living in Lake Atitlan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"As a foreigner living in Lake Atitlan, you will have access to public healthcare, but the quality and availability of services may vary. Public healthcare in Guatemala is provided through the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS), which operates hospitals, health centers, and health posts throughout the country. However, the public healthcare system in Guatemala is known to be underfunded and understaffed, which can lead to long wait times, limited availability of medications, and inadequate facilities. In rural areas like Lake Atitlan, healthcare services may be even more limited, with fewer facilities and medical professionals available. It is also important to note that public healthcare in Guatemala is primarily focused on providing basic medical care, and specialized treatments or procedures may not be readily available. Many foreigners and expats living in Guatemala choose to use private healthcare services, which are generally of higher quality and more accessible, but can be more expensive. It is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare services," explained one expat living in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala.