Healthcare abroad
Healthcare in Mexico: be ready to pay first
Not all hospitals work with insurers, so you may have to pay up front and claim back. Emergency services are limited outside the big cities. Prescriptions from abroad must be translated into Spanish.
- GHIC accepted
- Some free urgent care
- No free healthcare
- Very high costs
Cancún and the Riviera Maya have private hospitals used to tourists, and your insurer can often arrange direct payment there. Elsewhere, have a credit card with a high limit ready, just in case.
Where care differs
- Cancún, Playa del Carmen, TulumNo free healthcare
Private hospitals with English-speaking staff. Call your insurer to arrange payment.
- Mexico City, GuadalajaraNo free healthcare
Excellent private care at a price.
- Rural and mountain areasVery high costs
Limited emergency services. Serious cases need transfer to a city.
If you need a doctor
- Call your insurer's helpline before you go to hospital, unless it's an emergency.
- Pharmacies with a doctor's office next door (consultorio) give cheap consultations for minor problems.
- Carry a credit card with a high limit, as some hospitals ask for a deposit.
- Get an itemised bill in English if you can.
Sun, sea and Montezuma's revenge
Stomach bugs are the most common complaint. Drink bottled water and carry rehydration sachets. The Caribbean sun is strong, so use high-factor sunscreen, and check for red flag warnings for rip currents on Riviera Maya beaches.
Before you go
- Emergency number: 911.
- Cyclospora (a stomach parasite) affects some visitors. Wash fruit and drink bottled water.
- Use repellent against dengue and Zika, especially if pregnant.
Official advice: FCDO health advice for Mexico
Stay and do
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