With Costa Rica a popular destination for retirees, the quality of healthcare is at the forefront of people’s minds when considering whether to make the move. Thankfully, the standard of healthcare in Costa Rica is good. In fact, the country boasts some of the best facilities in Latin America.
Costa Rica’s healthcare system is divided into two: a government-run universal healthcare system and a private healthcare sector. Both systems are constantly being developed and improved, and most expats use a combination of the two.
Compared to most developing countries, the cost of healthcare in Costa Rica is low across the board, and many doctors, particularly those working in the private sector, speak good English.
Public healthcare in Costa Rica
The government-run universal healthcare system in Costa Rica is called the Costa Rica Social Security Fund or Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS). Through its network of hospitals and clinics, CCSS provides cost-effective healthcare to the population. Although the system can be overstretched, it generally serves Costa Rica well.
The system is funded by small monthly contributions based on income level. It provides full coverage for GP visits, prescription medications, inpatient hospital care, and all medical procedures.
Private healthcare in Costa Rica
While many expats have access to public healthcare in Costa Rica, most opt for private services or a combination of public and private services. These offer speedier services and a higher standard of care. Although more costly than public services, private healthcare is still highly affordable compared to what expats may be used to paying in Europe and North America.
The public and private healthcare systems in Costa Rica typically work well together, and most expats use a mix of both. Expats will likely use public services for regular GP visits and employ private healthcare for more specialised care, such as diagnostic services and major procedures.
Pharmacies and medicines in Costa Rica
Pharmacies in Costa Rica (farmacias) are scattered throughout the country. They tend to be well stocked, and most medicines can be ordered if they aren’t immediately available. Prescriptions are generally only required for antibiotics and psychotropic drugs, so regulations are far less restrictive than in Europe, North America, or Australia.
Vaccinations for Costa Rica
No particular vaccinations are required for entry into Costa Rica, although it’s recommended that expats keep routine vaccinations up to date, including those for typhoid, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella.
Emergency services in Costa Rica
The main emergency number in Costa Rica is 911. This number connects the caller to the police, fire department, and emergency medical services. Emergency lines are manned by bilingual Spanish and English speakers. Ambulance services in Costa Rica are relatively fast and efficient, and paramedics are well trained.