Medical Care In M E X I C O
Medical Care in Mexico for Americans and Canadians is becoming a huge business. Due to the rising costs of medical procedures in the United States and other developed countries, approximately 14 million people travel worldwide in search of more affordable, advanced medical procedures.
The foreign income in Mexico for medical tourism has more than tripled in the last twenty years. Mexico is now the second leading destination on the planet for medical travelers.
So, if you need to have surgery, where would you rather be? In the US, you’ll want to leave your hospital ASAP, but in Mexico, maybe you can stay longer and in more luxurious accommodation at a fraction of the cost. But is it worth it?
Why Do Many North Americans Resort to Medical Care in Mexico?
Mexican doctors, medical professionals and politicians are excited about Medical Tourism. On the surface it seems a win-win. The doctors get more experience and compensation, while the consumer gets professional services at a fraction of the cost.
Incredibly, the United States of America alone accounts for approximately 40% of global health care costs. Many uninsured or under-insured people find Mexico to be an affordable option for care.
Mexican health professional often offer added amenities not typically offered in the U.S., such as a private nurse, to encourage patients to choose their facility.
In the United States, it can be difficult to visit a specialist such as a dermatologist even if you are insured because you may not be “allowed” by your plan to see a dermatologist. Your general practitioner has to believe your skin problem warrants a visit to a specialist even if you want to have your skin checked by a certified skin doctor AND regardless of the thousands of dollars, you pay for insurance, you still have to pay out-of-pocket to see a dermatologist. You decide to bite the bullet and do it. You call for an appointment. There’s a several-month wait time. You make the appointment but wish there were an alternative.
“In March 2020, around 728 thousand tourists visited Mexico through the border zone for medical purposes.” – J. Mendoza, July 2021, www.statista.com
Why Do Many North Americans Resort to Medical Care in Mexico?
Mexican doctors, medical professionals and politicians are excited about Medical Tourism. On the surface it seems a win-win. The doctors get more experience and compensation, while the consumer gets professional services at a fraction of the cost.
Incredibly, the United States of America alone accounts for approximately 40% of global health care costs. Many uninsured or under-insured people find Mexico to be an affordable option for care.
Mexican health professional often offer added amenities not typically offered in the U.S., such as a private nurse, to encourage patients to choose their facility.
In the United States, it can be difficult to visit a specialist such as a dermatologist even if you are insured because you may not be “allowed” by your plan to see a dermatologist. Your general practitioner has to believe your skin problem warrants a visit to a specialist even if you want to have your skin checked by a certified skin doctor AND regardless of the thousands of dollars, you pay for insurance, you still have to pay out-of-pocket to see a dermatologist. You decide to bite the bullet and do it. You call for an appointment. There’s a several-month wait time. You make the appointment but wish there were an alternative.
Popular Medical Tourism Destinations
Destinations that offer both treatment and a relaxing get-a-way are plentiful.
Our Top Tips for Medical Tourists
But what about the doctors? How good are they?
A common concern for those considering going to Mexico for medical treatment is the training and qualifications of the medical professionals they will encounter. People are often surprised that Mexican doctors usually have comparable, if not more, expertise than some of their hometown medical professionals.
Often, Mexican physicians have trained in other countries, meaning they may have trained alongside your local physician. Travelers considering treatment abroad should research and verify whether the doctor they are planning to use has been trained and if they are properly licensed. Most professionals in Mexico willingly provide this information.
Obstetricians represent the highest percentage of specialists in Mexico, followed closely by surgeons, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, and internists. Mexico boasts over 120 General Health Council-certified hospitals. Also, numerous smaller clinics are licensed by the Pan American Health Organization.
The Medical Tourism Advisory Council
Mexico wants you to feel safe and comfortable travelling across the border for care.
The Medical Tourism Advisory Council was created. This agency is responsible for uniting essential public and private practitioners to establish a policy that will boost this growing source of revenue for Mexico’s struggling economy.
Medical Tourism in Mexico is making an effort to directly compete with specialized medical procedures performed in more developed countries—it’s a $60 billion industry that is only growing.
Specialized treatments, surgeries, cosmetic enhancement, eye care, and dental work have become the primary medical reasons for people in the United States and worldwide to travel to Mexico.
Filling Prescriptions in Mexico
The US Department of State recommends not to travel to Mexico for the sole purpose of filling prescription drugs. According to the U.S. Embassy, the Mexican Police can arrest foreigners in possession of illegal drugs. Filling prescriptions in Mexico requires a licensed doctor to prescribe and licensed pharmacist to fill. Despite these requirements, prescription drug savings in Mexico is attracting more people.
This industry is so lucrative, that recently in Utah the Public Employee Health Plan implemented a Pharmacy Tourism Program. Certain members of the PEHP who use expensive prescription medications are eligible to have PEHP pay to fly themselves and a companion to San Diego and then drive to a hospital in Tijuana. Then, they retrieve a 90-day supply of their medicine.
Is it REALLY worth the drive? Yes and No
Yes… According to a United States government report, approximately one million people in California per year believe it is worth it. Why? The savings! A three-month supply of insulin can cost nearly $4,000 in the United States, but that amount costs as little as $600 in Mexico.
No… According to the US government, nearly thirty percent of Mexico’s prescriptions are fake. At the very least, they say they are of lower quality. Such artificial medications may be difficult to recognize from natural pills and could pose serious health risks to customers.
Is taking prescriptions across the border legal? Is it drug trafficking?
According to the FDA, it is illegal for people to bring drugs into the US for personal use.
However, the FDA’s website offers guidelines about exceptions to this rule. Despite the grey area, going to Mexico for pharmaceutical drug savings is prevalent. Be aware of the risks:
- There are arrests made.
- Under a rightful arrest, those caught are often held for 48 hours ( the time Mexican law allows to hold a detainee without charges being filed).
- Detainees are often bribed or solicited by attorneys who demand large fees to secure their release.
- Sometimes, criminals impersonating police may extort money from tourists.
Popular Medical Treatments in Mexico for Medical Tourists
^ Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery in Mexico is becoming quite popular. Such surgeries in the United States are cost-prohibitive for many Americans. Procedures associated with aesthetics are usually not covered by medical insurance providers in the U.S. People who want to enjoy everything from breast augmentation to IPL skin treatments must pay out of pocket. Yet, many cosmetic treatments can enhance our lives–how we look and feel about ourselves. Increasingly, many Americans are looking beyond the country’s borders for high-quality healthcare, including aesthetic procedures, at affordable rates. Mexico is revered for its high standards of healthcare and charges roughly a third of what U.S. practitioners do. It is attracting people across the border to cities like Tijuana where medical care is readily available, affordable, and safe.
These treatments include:
- Facial rejuvenation
- Breast augmentation
- Body contouring
- Rhinoplasty
- Scar removal
- Skin resurfacing
- Liposuction
- Hair transplantation
- Botox treatments
Note: Please keep in mind that even though you can now purchase Health Insurance in Mexico as a tourist (click here for more info), cosmetic surgery is never covered under those policies. Almost no cosmetic surgery is covered under standard health insurance plans.
Obtaining Cosmetic Surgery in Mexico
One of the first steps in locating a cosmetic surgeon or aesthetic treatment physician in Mexico is to obtain references just as you would in the U.S. You’ll want to look for experienced doctors with a solid record of performance excellence. Many of Mexico’s doctors have trained in the United States or treat English-speaking clientele, so most speak English quite well. Since the support staff often doesn’t speak excellent English, you should brush up on some basic Spanish.
^ Dermatology
Skincare Products for cheap in Mexico
Tijuana boasts many excellent dermatologists and clinics that Americans can visit to obtain the high-quality care they deserve. Whether you want to have your moles checked out or get a second opinion about your eczema breakouts, you’ll find that Mexican dermatologists can provide the same level of care found in the United States.
In some cases, U.S. insurers are sending patients to Mexico for various types of care, including specialist procedures. Dermatologists treat skin issues, including skin cancers, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, etc.
If you are concerned about the costly office visits charged by American dermatologists, you should compare the prices and services available in Tijuana. Paying less for the same high-quality care is attractive to many Americans.
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is expensive in the United States, yet it can profoundly enhance someone’s quality of life and overall health.
Weight Loss Treatment Major Mexican cities like Tijuana offer a wide range of weight loss treatments for people who are overweight. Tijuana is home to several bariatric surgery centers that offer weight loss solutions like:
- Lap-Band surgery
- Gastric bypass surgery
- Gastric sleeve surgery
- Duodenal switch surgery
Tijuana is home to world-class surgeons who have performed thousands of these essential operations. Most doctors and surgeons in Mexico speak excellent English, so you should be able to communicate easily. Many of the city’s doctors and surgeons have trained in the U.S. or Mexico’s leading medical research hospitals and medical schools.
Bariatric Surgeons in Mexico Because bariatric surgery is as common in Mexico as in the U.S., you’ll quickly learn about renowned surgeons and experienced healthcare centers specializing in these procedures. Like in the U.S., you should start investigating potential bariatric surgeons online. You’ll want to select a fully credentialed surgeon, experienced in bariatric surgery, and has an excellent reputation. Once you narrow your search, you can call their healthcare centers to find out about costs, required visits, recovery time, etc.
How Much Can I Save by Having Bariatric Surgery in Mexico?
On average, gastric bypass surgery in the United States will cost you about $24,500. For the same surgery in Mexican cities like Tijuana, you can expect to pay $7,400. Because operating costs are substantially less in Mexico, patients pay far less than in the north.
Even with the savings, the level of care is unchanged. That means you can obtain affordable bariatric surgery in Mexico without increased health risks.
After Surgery
If you drive to Mexico for surgery, make sure you plan for recovery time. Most people will find a delightful hotel in Tijuana or the city where the procedure is being performed so that they can be discharged from the hospital and go straight to a luxury hotel to recuperate.
Crossing the Border for Surgery
Don’t forget to stop for your temporary visa (FMM) when you cross into Mexico, and also make sure to get Mexico Car Insurance on the internet before you leave your home.
^ Dental Care in Mexico
Dental care among travelers is thriving in Mexico—and with good reason. The nation has been attracting many Americans with its excellent-quality care and affordable prices. If dental treatment is available in the U.S., it is usually available in Mexico. Border towns like Los Algodones and Mexicali have become specifically noted for their high-quality dental procedures that are on par with what people from the U.S. can expect to find at home. Travelers come for everything from routine cleanings to implants. Significant work and cosmetic dental treatments are extremely popular in Mexico because they are far cheaper than in the U.S. Yet, the quality of care does not diminish simply because you have crossed the border.
Tijuana Dentist – American Biodental Center
Clients are raving about American Biodental Center in Tijuana. It’s conveniently located on the ground floor of the Grand Tijuana Hotel.
They have a very strong mission regarding patient care, responsible pain treatment, and quality care. Check them out here.
You Can Save Thousands of Dollars on Dental Care in Mexico
Generally speaking, dental care in Mexico costs a third of what you’d expect to pay in the U.S. That’s incredibly appealing to many people who live near the border.
Since traveling to a border town to receive high-quality dental care is cheaper than having the work done in the U.S., many people in northern sections of the U.S. find the idea of traveling to Mexico for dental care preferable than care in the states. Many combine their dental care with a full-blown vacation because it is still often cheaper than what you’d pay for your dental work at home.
You can save as much as 70% when you consider driving to Mexico for dental work.
Typical costs:
- Tooth implant with a crown – save over $3,000
- Same day root canal? Save $750+
- If it’s dentures you’re after, you could save a whopping $1,300
However, the real savings happen with major procedures, such as multiple implants, a dental bridge, or the removal of porcelain crowns. The savings on these big operations can add up to thousands of dollars.
Paying for Dental Care in Mexico
U.S. cash works quite well for most of Mexico’s dentists, especially those near the border who do a lot of business with Americans. Credit cards, too, are generally welcome, and some dentists may even accept a check.
Obtaining all the information you need regarding dental care in advance is a good idea. Find out about the cost of treatment upfront.
Appointments
If you need an immediate root canal or to have your crown reattached after seeing it fall out, the stress of waiting for a dentist appointment in the US can cause unnecessary anxiety.
It can be significantly faster to book an appointment with a Mexican dentist for the following reasons:
- Mexican dentists work substantially more hours – usually Monday through Friday, 8 AM- 6 PM
- Mexican dentists often work extra hours on Saturdays
- In the US, dentists often work only three or four days a week – making appointments extremely limited
- Many regions in the US have too few dentists to meet demands
These unfortunate realities in the U.S. create a backlog, and it can take several months to get in to see someone for your urgent dental needs.
Choosing a Dentist
- Research. Just like in the U.S., you will want to do some research when choosing a dentist. You should have no problem finding several that have excellent reputations.
- If Possible, Make an Appointment. Before traveling to Mexico for dental care, be sure to set up an appointment, especially if you require an extensive procedure. Walk-ins for simple procedures such as a cleaning may be available at some Mexican dental offices.
- Understand Some of the Differences in the Systems.In the U.S.
- Many dentist’s offices are known as ‘single dentist practices’ – meaning there’s but one dentist employed in the entire office.
- When you need a root canal, your dentist refers you to a periodontist
- Many rural areas in the US simply don’t have specialists (i.e., periodontists) causing a delay in care
- The process of bouncing between several clinics and specialists is often exhausting and frustrating
- Another common situation in the U.S. is the existence of ‘do-it-all’ dentists. These dentists perform work such as full-mouth crown restorations, periodontal treatments, and root canals
In Mexico
- A variety of specialists offer their services in one common building
- This system enables fast service, such as a root canal specialist beginning your root canal immediately after the consultation
- There are exceptional dentists in Tijuana, Hermosillo, and Monterrey. Making your dentist trip a fun destination makes it easier to recruit someone to go with you
- Many Americans are delighted at the quality care they receive from Mexican dentists
Mexico Dental Work: Earned Vacation
The fusion of huge savings with driving to Mexico for dental work gave birth to the term ‘dental tourism.’ Imagine this… You’re enduring the freezing temperatures of Chicago in the dead of winter. You are only weeks away from a big event. Getting your teeth fixed is a priority. However, your dental quote for the work was over $10,000 from two local dentists. You wanted it done but don’t have that kind of money. You have two options:
- Endure the subzero temperatures while scheduling more consultations to (hopefully) find a better deal.
- Fly to Cancun. Spend half the amount. $5,000 gets your dental work done and vacation!
And…If you live within driving distance, you can save even more money on care. , drive to your favorite Mexico destination, stay in a charming hotel, get a massage, make it an epic dental appointment.
Personal Experience with Mexican Medical Care
Mike Nelson is not an expert in Mexican Medical Care but he is willing to share his first-hand experience with Mexican Medical Care. To us, this is even more valuable. Here is his story.
Alternative Cancer Treatment Centers in Mexico
Having to seek out cancer treatment is never easy. Knowing that you or a loved one has been diagnosed can feel overwhelming, and between having to deal with the reality of a diagnosis and the suffering that comes along with the disease, researching cancer treatment options can feel like an impossible task.
We understand this reality, which is why we’ve compiled a list of some of Mexico’s top cancer treatment centers. Not all treatment options are available in the United States due to FDA restrictions, which is why Mexico’s cancer treatment facilities are being increasingly sought out around the world.
1) CHIPSA
CHIPSA is a facility attempting to utilize immunology to treat cancer, drawing inspiration from modern techniques used to treat HIV/AIDS that make use of dendritic cells to fight against diseases that effectively cancel out the body’s ability to fight back. Immunonutrition is a key part of their treatment routine, which emphasizes a healthy diet and the imbibing of foods theorized to help fight against cancers by naturally boosting the immune system. Other treatments used by the facility include intravenous injections of megadoses of Vitamin C and Apatone, stem cell therapy, and insulin potentiation therapy. It’s important to mention that almost none of these treatment methods are approved in the United States (and most of the world), with many of them actually being considered malpractice.
2) Hope 4 Cancer
With multiple facilities, Hope 4 Cancer takes a holistic approach to treating cancer, utilizing a number of alternative approaches to aid the body in fighting back against cancer’s toxic effects.
Various treatments utilized by the organization include auto-immune therapy, emotional and mental healing techniques, and detoxification programs designed to rid the body of toxins that can contribute to cancer’s lethality.
Hope 4 Cancer, has grown into a world leader when it comes to holistic, natural cancer treatments which aren’t used anywhere else in the world (possibly for good reason).
3) Oasis of Hope
While independent organizations like Quackwatch have reported the approaches of this organization’s cancer treatment methods as “dubious,” Oasis of Hope still attracts many cancer patients to its facilities with its alternative treatments.
Some of those treatments involve a restrictive diet limited to “non-toxic” ingredients, mental healing techniques, and the removal of metal fillings from a patient’s mouth. Another technique commonly used is to induce a high fever in a patient, with the theory being that since fevers are the body’s natural response to viruses and diseases, they can effectively “burn out” cancer cells.
4) Angeles Treatment Center
Located in Tijuana, Angeles Treatment Center also utilizes holistic healing techniques to treat cancer. With a 6-step cancer treatment program, their methods range from the alternative to the controversial. With virtually no traditional treatment methods utilized, their 6-step cancer treatment program has very little science behind it. The six steps are as follows: 1. Using diagnostic screening techniques and laboratory exams, health workers here will determine your cancer type and recommend treatment options to help repair any damages. 2. A detox program to remove “toxins” which may be contributing to cancer’s growth. Seem vague to you? Their website doesn’t include any more information unless you request it specifically, which requires submission of a form with your contact information.
5) Mexican Cancer Clinics
With a name so generic, you might expect traditional cancer treatment methods like chemotherapy or radiation, but you’d be wrong. Mexican Cancer Clinics takes a holistic approach to their treatment methodology. Treatment methods include a strict dietary regimen that eliminates processed foods and refined sugar, which is a scientifically proven way to reduce your risk of getting cancer – but it won’t help if you already have it. Therapy sessions to elevate mood and promote physical health are also popular by this organization – which again, won’t actually assist patients with cancer, as therapy alone can do little against metastatic growths that are spreading throughout a patient’s body and shutting down their organ functionality. If you have a cancer diagnosis and fear the idea of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, we understand. Western medicine can seem cold and clinical to someone that’s never spent much time in hospitals or around medical professionals. However, while science can seem cold and uninviting, there’s a reason for this – it’s cut and dry and based on fact. Real medical professionals have sworn a Hippocratic oath to always do what’s in the best interest of their patients, no matter what. The thing that many “alternative” cancer treatment centers have in common is that they aren’t run by medical professionals. They are run by people looking for a profit.
The Wellness Tourism Association (WTA), has determined 50 top wellness destinations in the world, 3 of which are in Mexico. A wellness location contains natural assets and activities primarily focused on serving the wellness-minded traveler and those who want to be. Natural resources are present like mountains, lakes and oceans, hot springs, forests, and waterfalls. These locations don’t just offer a safe and secure location with clean infrastructure. The staff are experts in their fields: yoga, holistic healers, and spiritual advisers and the restaurants include healthy food grown by local farmers.
Wellness Destinations in Mexico
1) Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa Holistic Yaxkin Spa offers traditional Mayan treatments inspired by its Yucatán jungle surroundings. Treatment options include: sasil-tun, hot-stone therapy; kakaw, cacao-coconut massage; or zumpul-che, a purifying sweat bath once performed by the Aztecs. Treatments utilize local herbs, honey, and cacao. 2) Azulik Resort Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast in the ancient walled city of Tulum, this traditional Maya spa offers holistic treatments with spectacular beachfront views. Local shamans work their magic with clay massage, temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies, coconut-infused Maya baths, body wraps, and crystal therapy, a traditional Maya energy booster. 3) Rancho La Puerta Casitas, haciendas, and villas, each individually decorated with Mexican folk art, scatter the grounds of this 3,000-acre (1,214-hectare) wellness retreat in the foothills of Mount Kuchumaa. Try wraps, scrubs, hydrotherapy, and massage (Thai, deep tissue, hot stone, or sport). Spring Rain Shower (dry brush scrub, seaweed body mask, rinse) is bliss. This family-founded and operated Baja spa has been rejuvenating visitors for sixty-five years around 3,000 acres of breathtaking mountains and meadowlands. Many have dubbed this resort as among the first “eco” spas. Guests stroll the various gardens that surround each facility and the healing treatments are found not only within the retreat itself but in the surrounding lands that have been sacred to Native Americans. Space is an aromatic sanctuary that makes use of its healing plants for many of its soothing treatments. You’ll also enjoy delectable fresh cuisine during your stay and you may also opt to participate in a wide array of activities like hiking, swimming, or evening lectures. Just minutes south of the border in Tecate, Rancho La Puerta is sure to relax.
Mexico is one of the most scenic and exciting regions of Mexico with some amazing Spa’s. With beaches and oceans of activities, Baja boasts some of the country’s most magnificent spas. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat for rejuvenating the body, mind, and spirit, consider Baja California for a relaxing vacation. The following resorts are well known for their fine service and unforgettable treatments.
1) Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Holistic Retreat and Spa-Cabo San Lucas
The utter beauty of this coastal Baja spa is likely to rival any bathhouse or spring on earth. The Armonio Spa of this complex is revered for its healing treatments. Massage therapies and an extensive menu of body treatments are geared toward wellness and renewal. While there are various treatment packages available to suit every need, many visitors enjoy the fitness center and salon as well as simply strolling the glorious beach outside.
2) Las Rocas Resort and Spa- Rosarito Beach
Located within thirty minutes of Tijuana, La Rocas is a popular Baja spa and resort among vacationers. Its beautiful seaside location in Rosarito is complemented by a glorious holistic therapy. Treatments make use of local ingredients like seaweed, jojoba oil, sea salt, and other herbal blends that awaken and rejuvenate the skin. Many guests enjoy beauty treatments in the relaxing salon that features a magnificent view of the ocean. Couples massages are also popular pastimes at this renowned spa.
3) Spa Cielo- Cabo San Lucas
Combining art and science to make people look as well as feel better, this spa offers a wide variety of health and beauty treatments. Clients rave about treatments that improve the appearance of deep wrinkles, scars, acne, and even skin pigmentation. From muscle stimulation to customized skin programs, this facility-resort takes beauty and renewal to a medical level without surgical interventions. This Baja Spa takes it to a new level.
4) One and Only- Cabo San Lucas
This wellness center is extraordinarily beautiful and among the most pristine Spa in the Baja California region. Lose your stress while enjoying luxurious treatments or lounging in the sauna and steam rooms. From beautifying bridal bath treatments to treatments that enhance one’s pregnancy, this resort is well worth visiting. An extensive treatment menu offers guests the chance to relax in a serene atmosphere and to improve their inner calm. For true relaxation, this spa ranks high on the list of Mexico’s greatest.
Medical Tourism in Mexico
MEDICAL TOURISM IN MEXICO
Due to the rising costs of medical procedures in the United States and other developed countries, approximately 14 million people travel around the world in search of more affordable, advanced medical procedures.
Healthcare in Mexico: A Personal Experience
When I moved to Mexico, I have a lot of preconceived notions about how things work. One of those things was health insurance in Mexico. I had heard over the years about how cheap healthcare is in Mexico. I knew
Wellness Destinations in Mexico
Wellness destinations in Mexico – well, top 50 in the world, 3 of them in Mexico, listed below. Wellness is holistic healing, yoga, and
Cancer Treatment in Mexico
Susan Clark, seeking cancer treatment in Mexico as a 58-year-old former nurse who lives in Yucatan, Mexico. They discovered a lump in her breast early in 2012. She began a series of tests in nearby Merida, a city of more
