michelle asked 7 years ago
Greetings Matt and Jenn! Much gratitude for your website. I am traveling for the first time to CR with my 8 year old son. We are staying 2 weeks, but plan on returning for future visits as well. How is medical insurance handled if there is need for medical care there? Should we plan on paying cash or do they have a way to bill our american medical company? thank you! Michelle
Jenn and Matt Staff answered 7 years ago
Hi Michelle,
As far as we know your US medical insurance will not cover you while you are visiting. To be sure you’d have to ask them or read the policy carefully but it is unlikely. For smaller things, paying out of pocket (cash, credit card depending on the place) probably makes the most sense. Hospitals and clinics will treat anyone and a lot of pharmacies can do simple medical things too (they often have a doctor on staff). In general the cost is a lot less here so unless it is something bigger it is not an issue. To cover yourself for major medical care, evacuation back to the US, etc. you will probably want to purchase travel insurance. If you are interested in looking at some options, you could check out Berkshire Hathaway/Travelex.