Those living in Mexico as an expat would know how exciting life can be. Mexico is an eclectic mix of the new and the old, and for many, life here is nothing short of an adventure. Of course, there are the usual rules and protocols, but the cost of living is fairly affordable especially if you compare it to the USA. If you are here for the long haul, you need to factor in the healthcare cost too.
A brief overview
Well, what you need to understand is that the public health service here does not have reciprocal agreements with other countries nor does it allow you to use your existing US Medicare. So if there is an accident or a medical emergency, you should be willing to pay out-of-pocket. It's no secret that medical expenses can burn a hole in your pocket. You should know the options available to you before you decide to move to Mexico. If you are traveling to Mexico only for a short visit, you must still check the fine print of your current healthcare plan to ensure that you are indeed covered in Mexico.
Those living in Mexico as an expat would know how exciting life can be. Mexico is an eclectic mix of the new and the old, and for many, life here is nothing short of an adventure. Of course, there are the usual rules and protocols, but the cost of living is fairly affordable especially if you compare it to the USA. If you are here for the long haul, you need to factor in the healthcare cost too.
A brief overview
Well, what you need to understand is that the public health service here does not have reciprocal agreements with other countries nor does it allow you to use your existing US Medicare. So if there is an accident or a medical emergency, you should be willing to pay out-of-pocket. It's no secret that medical expenses can burn a hole in your pocket. You should know the options available to you before you decide to move to Mexico. If you are traveling to Mexico only for a short visit, you must still check the fine print of your current healthcare plan to ensure that you are indeed covered in Mexico.
For longer stays, you may want to consider having a private health insurance policy that takes care of all your medical needs. You may also want to consider having an evacuation plan in case you need to be flown back to your home country in case of emergencies.
Know your options
You may apply for IMSS, the Mexican public healthcare insurance system on a voluntary basis to get adequate coverage and access to primary care and clinics across Mexico. The standard factors such as age, health history, etc. will of course come into play. It's important to note here that those who are covered under the plan through an employer are given priority over those who opt for it voluntarily. Alternatively, you can opt for private medical insurance too that can give you access to myriad hospitals, doctors, and clinics in Mexico. Individual plans, family plans, and many other customized plans are available for consideration. But then, you need to weigh your choices carefully especially if you are living there as an expat.
Register with Lakeside Medical Group
A simple way to stay covered with your existing U.S. insurance plan at no additional cost is to register with Lakeside Medical Group. Yes, that's an option available to you if you simply sign up for their services for free. All you need to do is register and continue to use your existing plan free of cost.
What you get includes:
- Access to 350+ U.S. medical plans
- Extensive coverage across Mexico
- Around-the-clock service
- Instant access to hospitals, clinics, physicians, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies
In closing
It’s not easy to live without health insurance in Mexico. But if you have Lakeside Medical Group by your side, help is just a call away. Visit www.lakemedicalgroup.com to stay well and healthy in Mexico.