As a foreigner living in Costa Rica, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
We asked expats in Costa Rica if they have access to public healthcare in Costa Rica. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Costa Rica, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Costa Rica is known for its high quality of care and is considered to be one of the best in Latin America. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents of Costa Rica. The public healthcare system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system also offers free or low-cost medications and treatments," said another in Costa Rica.
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"You will not be covered by the socialized health system until you have gained Temporary Residency which is presently taking over a year. Then, you will have to pay at least $220 per month for healthcare, even if you don't use it. Most expats chose to purchase additional insurance," explained one expat who made the move to Costa Rica.
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Other Questions:
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- What are medical services in Costa Rica like?
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- As a foreigner living in Costa Rica, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
As a foreigner living in Costa Rica, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
If you live in Costa Rica, newcomers to Costa Rica would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
