Healthcare in Mexico
There are three levels of healthcare in Mexico, the lowest of which is limited coverage for unemployed Mexicans (which expats will not have to utilise). The second level of healthcare is largely covered by a national healthcare program (IMSS) that expats working for Mexican companies automatically qualify for. Part of employees' pay checks are automatically deducted to pay for the coverage, and retired expats can also join the group although coverage is not automatic. The quality of care ranges quite a bit. Some hospitals and clinics are truly first-rate, while others are less consistent, particularly in rural areas.
Private health insurance is recommended for the top level of medical care provided by private clinics and hospitals. Expats already covered by the national healthcare system should have additional health insurance to receive private care, which is generally better than in government facilities. It is important to make sure a hospital accepts foreign insurance providers, as many do not, and that the hospital can provide documentation for reimbursement from insurance companies. Nearly one million Americans, most of whom don't have insurance, go to Mexico each year to find cheaper treatment and pay 'out-of-hand'. Senior citizen expats can qualify for discounts on healthcare.
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