An ecosystem basically comprises many organisms and entities, which interact with one another. The health ecosystem primarily comprises investors, clients, and digital health providers.
Many investors, health providers, and clients in Mexico, enamored by healthcare scenes, have tried forcing their way into the health insurance ecosystem. Most have never operated a business and are not healthcare experts, but they are basically self-proclaimed professionals.
Since Mexico is a welcoming country to foreigners, most Mexicans speak English. That means communication and language can be the least of the problem.
So you may wonder, can a US citizen get Mexican health insurance? Well, everyone working in the country has to be enrolled in the healthcare sector by their employers. This is regardless of whether you are a citizen or an ex-pat.
The main aim of healthcare systems is to offer universal coverage for every individual in the public healthcare sector. But most prefer private sectors.
Healthcare System in Mexico
Basically, there are main categories of Mexican healthcare. These tiers are simply private, public and not free, and public and free.
1. Private
This is specifically reserved for ex-pats and well-off Mexicans. Even though only 7% of Mexicans have private health insurance, most private companies attract around half of the healthcare spending.
According to the Mexican government’s INEGI and OECD, this is because more than 50% of hospitals in Mexico are private.
2. Public and Not Free
It depends on two major national insurance programs, including ISSSTE and IMSS. If you work in Mexico, you will depend on the IMSS unless you already have federal responsibility, where you may need ISSSTE.
If you are retired, unemployed, or self-employed, you may still opt for IMSS coverage, provided you make the necessary payments.
3. The Public and Free
This is the first Mexico’s public healthcare providing, the (INSABI) Instituto Nacional de Salud para el Bienestar, replacing the Seguro Popular scheme at the beginning of 2020.
While making this change, the country became among the countries in America that don’t have universal healthcare.
Health Risks in Mexico
If you are planning to have a vacation or getaway, Mexico remains a popular destination, thanks to breathtaking natural scenery, friendly people, and its rich culture.
But as a traveler, you may ask, do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Because of various safety matters and diseases, which may arise, it is advisable to buy travel insurance when going to Mexico.
While Mexico is safe most of the time, some health hazards still exist. There is a great risk of contracting illnesses spread through mosquito bites, like Zika viruses, Dengue fever, and Chikungunya.
No anti-viral medications are available for those infections. So this means prevention by applying mosquito repellents or putting on long-sleeved clothes is necessary.
There could be a low risk of getting malaria, but ex-pats are also advised to take some anti-malarial measures. In fact, they need to visit a doctor before they travel to ascertain that their vaccinations are updated, specifically for:
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis A
Health Insurance for Ex-pats
As far as getting insured out of your home country is concerned, you might be overwhelmed to prepare for the new home.
Getting healthcare coverage is no exception. But, English-speaking assistance 24/7, programs with a system similar to health insurance firms, and direct payment to doctors or hospitals are major concerns to most ex-pats.
From elite to basic health insurance in Mexico, coverage plans vary on benefits and costs. So as an ex-pat, you might want to ensure that you look for an insurer who may guarantee you a higher level of customer care.
How Long Health Insurance Can Uncover You
You may be on the visitor’s permit in Mexico, referred to as FMM, for around six months. For ex-pats looking to live in the country for those six months or even less, and you are not planning to generate income, you don’t have to apply for a resident visa.
When it comes to health insurance, you will not be eligible for the public health insurance of INSABI and IMSS, especially when you are not registered as Mexico’s residents.
But ex-pats living in the country on the visitor’s permit can be covered by international health insurance. In that case, it is vital to note that most private health sectors will not accept health insurance coverage from another country. Instead, you will need to make a credit payment or pay by cash.
Final Remarks!
The healthcare sector globally continues to rise up to deal with the ongoing pandemic’s new challenges.
It continues elevating human experience and reshaping where, what, and how to work is carried out, swiftly scaling online health services for patients.
At the same time, insurers have a chance to redefine their value proposition by rethinking the role they may play in the flexible and new healthcare insurance ecosystem.
