International Health Insurance in Mexico
Mexico is a popular destination for expats searching for plenty of sun and soul. Delicious food, year-round warmth and a welcoming culture awaits professionals and retirees bound for the North American nation.
Whether you’re after a quiet life of relaxation or hope to make the most of the vibrant Mexican atmosphere, there’s a lifestyle for all visitors on offer here. Moving abroad is a big decision and opting for Mexico is no different. Among the many things to consider before packing your bags, ensuring you’re medically covered is sure to be high on your to-do list.
Get help with international health insurance in Mexico by learning how it all works below.
How does the healthcare system work in Mexico?
The healthcare system in Mexico is a blend of public and private institutions. The public sector provides healthcare for the uninsured through the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) and the Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE). Private insurance is then available to those who desire it.
The quality and availability of care can differ throughout the country, with urban areas benefiting from greater choice when it comes to medical options. Public facilities can suffer from overcrowding due to the popularity of ‘medical tourism’ in Mexico. Many Westerners travel to Mexico to make use of the cheaper treatments on offer, with services more affordable than in their home nation.
Some expats choose to purchase private insurance, which usually offers a higher quality of care, albeit at more expensive rates.
Mexico also has a universal healthcare program, Seguro Popular, which has recently been replaced by the Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar (INSABI).
Pros and cons of using the Mexico’s health system
Pros
- Public care is universal and provided by the state.
- Pharmacies are widespread with medications available over the counter.
- Some treatments are more affordable than nearby neighbours, like the USA.
- Generally good standard of care and patient-focused treatment.
Cons
- Public facilities suffer from overcrowding.
- Services can be lacking outside of urban areas.
- Linguistic issues may arise for non-Spanish speakers.
The differences between public and private care in Mexico
| Public | Private |
|---|---|
| State funded. | Universally accessible. |
| Affordable, good standard of care. | Privately funded. |
| Can be overcrowded. | Wider range of treatments. |
How can international health insurance help you in Mexico?
Depending upon your needs and preferences as an expat, an international medical insurance plan can help you and your family when you move to Mexico.
Private cover means you can still benefit from the high standards of care and cheaper treatment options on offer in Mexico, all while ensuring access to medical aid wherever and whenever you need it. With linguistic experts in our team, you are also unlikely to have confusion in hospitals where doctors may not be very fluent in English.
Our plans can be arranged ahead of time and feature options to add existing medical issues, dental coverage and even mental health support for a modern, forward-thinking approach to your health.
Choosing your international health insurance
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Why choose Cigna Healthcare for health insurance in Mexico?
- Domestic and international coverage to protect your family in Mexico and beyond.
- 24/7 access to multilingual support whenever and wherever you need it.
- Personalised care from our customer team to ensure your needs are met.
- Package add-ons available for dental care, mental wellbeing and more.
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International health insurance in Mexico typically covers a range of medical expenses, including hospitalisation, prescription drugs, emergency care, and diagnostic tests. Coverage may also include travel-related services such as medical evacuation and repatriation.
Expat health insurance is a type of health insurance policy designed to provide coverage to individuals who are moving to Mexico from another country for work or personal reasons.
While expat health insurance is not mandatory in Mexico, it is highly recommended. The local healthcare system can be difficult to navigate, and medical costs can be high for those without insurance.