GREAT NEWS FOR RETIREES: MEXICO
With so many changes going on in the United States, a spotlight has now been set on health care systems across the globe as a comparison... and Mexico has been noticed as one of the best.
The 2014 edition of International Living's Global Retirement Index sets Mexico among the top 5 countries for health care in the world. Not only is our health care of excellent quality, but it's also very affordable. Public health care with government organizations like IMSS or ISSTE reportedly costs less than $300 dollars a year, with plenty of government hospitals found in every major city.
For expats who prefer to avoid the crowds of government institutions and are willing to pay extra, private insurance is also available at just a fraction of the price you would pay in the States. In any medium to large city in Mexico, you can easily find private hospitals with attractive facilities and top-notch medical technology.
Even a routine check-up with a private doctor or dentist and zero insurance coverage will probably only set patients back about $20 - $80 USD, depending on where you go. Expats who are "in-the-know" even opt for a visit to Farmacias Similares, a popular Mexico pharmacy offering doctor appointments for less than $5 USD, perfect for minor injuries, colds, infections, flu, etc.
Many cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen also have Mexican Red Crossambulances and health care facilities, used for minor emergencies and illnesses at an affordable price.
A relatively new phenomenon known as "medical tourism" has grown in popularity here in Mexico, as well. Americans are flocking down south for dental work, plastic surgery, fertility and IVF treatments, and even surgeries. Many American doctors have even set up their offices in Mexico specifically to cater to expats and medical tourism.
When moving to the Riviera Maya, it's comforting to know that a variety of quality health care options are available for expats at an affordable price!