Your Guide to Healthcare in Mexico

When moving to Mexico from the US or Canada, it is important to have private health insurance in Mexico to receive adequate care in the event of an accident or medical emergency. In this case, you should familiarize yourself with the National Health Policy. Unfortunately, US health insurance doesn’t work here but don’t worry. As in any country, the healthcare industry is complex. Let’s try to explain how health insurance works in Mexico, the average cost of health insurance, and why you should buy it. 

 

What is Health Insurance in Mexico?

As in all other countries, it is an agreement to pay medical expenses in case of an accident or illness. It is written by insurance companies between individuals, families, or communities. There are different health insurance companies in Mexico. One thing they all have in common is that they are practical for emergency or routine service. When discussing health insurance in Mexico, the amount of coverage corresponds to the various health items listed in the policy. These include standard expenses: medical bills, hospital bills, related care costs (depending on whether you have insurance and what level of care you need), surgical procedures, various preventive measures and corrective tests, and many other expenses that are common illnesses or diseases.

 

How Does Health Insurance Work in Mexico?

The general rule is that health insurance companies operate in different ways. Many companies offer rewards services. For example, patients pay for medical services. If correct information is provided in the application, the insurance company will refund the benefits to the insured. Other companies work with cards that are only used in the company’s hospitals and clinics and which have an agreement with the company. In some cases, a deductible applies, meaning the patient pays the first medical bill. After reaching the fixed amount, the company will be liable.

 

Things to Consider About Health Insurance in Mexico:

1. Companies must state which diseases are included and excluded. 
2. The premium paid by the insured or the insured. Also known as an annuity payment that helps keep an insurance contract or policy in effect. This contract guarantees that the protection offered by the insurance company will be available in case of a covered condition or event.
3. All health insurance companies have one thing in common. They want to limit losses in case of illness or injury cover, so they have to pay an annual premium.
4. Fees for services may be paid directly to the hospital or clinic when care is provided or through payment options under the policy and any agreement between the insurer and the facility. 
5. The waiting period before the policy takes effect can vary from immediately after payment is received to 30 days, up to two years. Insurance companies set waiting periods so that customers do not forget to disclose pre-existing conditions that were not reported in the application. 

 

Do I Need Health Insurance in Mexico?

Everyone is sick and everyone needs medical treatment. When this happens, the costs involved could affect our financial condition. Therefore, it is important to get medical insurance in Mexico to protect your health and pocket. The Mexican government offers public insurance called IMSS o ISSSTE, but it is only available to Mexican citizens or foreigners working for private companies in Mexico. Even with these options, it’s best to supplement with private health insurance to cover your medical needs and ensure the best possible care. 

In the worst-case scenario (which sometimes happens), some people lose their life savings because they are uninsured in the event of an accident or unexpected illness. We all know that serious illness or injury can happen at any age, no matter how careful or healthy you are. If an unexpected health condition occurs without health insurance, it can seriously affect the financial condition of the family. Illnesses that require long-term treatment, expensive medications, or highly specialized equipment and techniques can cause additional financial hardship for any family. Unlike in the US or Canada, medical bills must be paid before care can be provided.

Health insurance means that your family’s wealth will not be affected in case of an unexpected accident or illness. Also, it helps in providing the best medical care required for a speedy recovery. In severe cases where people lose limbs, insurance can help them get prosthetics. 

 

What Is The Difference Between Basic Health Insurance and Minor Health Insurance?

What types of health insurance are offered in Mexico? The answer is simple: there is health insurance for serious illnesses and health insurance for minor illnesses. The main difference is that critical health insurance covers critical illnesses and unexpected expenses. A small amount of health and medical insurance covers day-to-day expenses resulting from unexpected minor illnesses and accidents. 

They usually don’t need more than a day or two in the hospital. The insurance market in Mexico has high medical expense plans and low medical expense plans, both of which are important for the health of individuals and families.

 

Is Health Insurance Free in Mexico?

Unfortunately not, but that seems like a cheap price to pay, especially compared to American politics. As in the US, insurance costs can vary depending on the company, age, pre-existing medical conditions, and deductibles chosen by the insurance company. How to choose the best health insurance?

Now that you understand how it works and the potential costs, it’s time to choose the best health insurance for you in Mexico. Here are some points to consider:

 

The Basics of Choosing the Best Insurance Company for You and Your Family

1. Treatment is provided by reputed private hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of medical specialties.
2. Best of all, you can opt for an insurance card. 
3. Depending on the level of coverage, the price is reasonable.
4. Talk to other experienced ex-pats, get references, and ask questions about coverage and potential costs before buying a policy. 
5. You want to get your health policy in place as soon as possible so that if something does happen, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible treatment.

 

Is American Health Insurance Valid in Mexico?

Yes, but not all companies offer the same level of coverage. It’s also best to get your health insurance through a Mexican company that understands how things work here. You don’t want your medical claim to be denied because of incorrect paperwork.