This post was originally posted on March 22, 2022, and was updated on January 12, 2024.
The last thing you need on your Cancún vacation is to have a medical emergency and have no clue where to seek treatment. Such an occurrence would not only put a damper on your trip but may also be life-threatening, depending on the severity of your condition. So, can you get high-quality treatment in Cancún?
Cancún has numerous top-notch hospitals where you can get quality treatment whether you reside in the city or you’re just visiting. However, the quality varies from one hospital to the next. Therefore, it’s advisable to research and identify the best hospital for your needs before embarking on your trip.
In this article, we explore the quality of hospitals in Cancún and share the top five hospitals you should consider getting treatment from while in the city. So, let’s dive right in. Shall we?
Does Mexico Have Good Hospitals?
Ah, Mexico. It’s on every avid traveler’s bucket list, and it’s not hard to see why. The country is picturesque with incredible sights and activities to engage in, not forgetting the culture and friendly people.
If you’re planning to vacation in Cancún, you probably already know all the must-see sights and have a clear idea of what you’re itinerary will look like. But do you know where you can seek treatment if you get sick? Are the hospitals in Cancún any good?
One of the best things about Cancún, Mexico, is that there are plenty of good hospitals. It’s a city with a large tourist population. So, it only makes sense for the country to have a good supply of health facilities.
However, these hospitals are not created equal. The quality varies from one health facility to the next. For this reason, it’s crucial to research and compare the top facilities to narrow them down to the best hospital for your needs.
Another thing you should be aware of is the language barrier. While most of the hospitals in the city are staffed with professional doctors and nurses, most of them don’t speak English. As a result, these hospitals are considered most suitable for Cancún residents.
However, it’s possible to find private facilities that cater to foreign patients, although you may have to dig a bit deeper into your pockets to afford the services.
Nonetheless, you can rest assured that the quality of care you receive will be up to standard because most doctors in Cancún have received their training and education from the United States, Europe, and Canada.
Source: Allianz Care
Which are the Best Hospitals in Cancún?
So, where should you seek treatment if you get sick while in Cancún? We’ve listed the top three health institutions, their quality of service, and what you can expect from each to help you decide.
Galenia Hospital
The Galenia Hospital, located at Avenida Tulum in Cancun, is one of the most famous hospitals in Cancún and for good reason. The facility is an excellent, service-oriented hospital that caters to residents and tourists alike.
Galenia Hospital offers numerous services but specializes in:
- Oncology
- Dentistry
- Plastic surgery
- Cardiology
- Traumatology
- General Surgery
- Brain and Spine surgery
This hospital is a one-stop facility for all your healthcare needs while visiting the city. The Galenia Hospital in Cancun is located at Av. Tulúm Lote 01 Mza 01 SM 12, Fracc. Sta. María Siké, Esquina Nizuc, Cancún, Quintana Roo, México
Amerimed Cancún Hospital
Amerimed Cancún Hospital is another popular health facility with a national and international reputation. This hospital is equipped with the best equipment, and some of the country’s top physicians work there.
The hospital is known to offer the best services such as:
- Ultrasound
- Radiography
- Tomography
- Physical therapy
- Intensive care
- Neonatal care
- Rehabilitation
If you’re looking for a hospital that offers comprehensive health care, you won’t go wrong with Amerimed Hospital. The Amerimed Cancun Hospital is located at Av. Tulum Sur no. 260, Manzanas 4, 5 y 9, Sm 7, Centro, C.P. 77500, Cancún, Quintana Roo, México
Playamed Group
For travelers to Cancun requiring medical services, Playamed Group is a commendable option. This hospital is recognized for its modern operating rooms and innovative approach to delivering medical services. It caters to a significant number of international patients annually, specializing in areas such as Cosmetic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, and Bariatrics.
Playamed Group is known for its state-of-the-art technology and friendly staff, making it an attractive choice for medical tourists. The hospital’s facilities are equipped to provide high-quality care, and its locations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen make it accessible to visitors in these popular tourist destinations.
The Playamed Group, specifically the Hospital PlayaMed, is located at Av Nader Mz 1 Lt 13 SM 2, Cancún, Q Roo, Mexico. This location positions it conveniently for both residents and tourists in the heart of Cancún
Does Cancun Have Good Doctors?
Yes, Cancun is known to have good doctors and medical facilities, particularly in private hospitals and clinics catering to both local and international patients. The city has seen a significant growth in medical tourism due to its combination of high-quality medical care and attractive tourist destinations. Many doctors in Cancun are trained internationally and are fluent in English, which adds to the comfort of international patients seeking medical services there.
Private healthcare facilities in Cancun, like Amerimed, Hospiten, and Galenia, are equipped with modern equipment and staffed by skilled healthcare professionals. These hospitals offer a wide range of medical services from general care to specialized procedures. Moreover, the cost of medical care in Cancun can be more affordable compared to similar procedures and treatments in the United States and other countries, without compromising on the quality of care.
However, like any destination, the quality of medical care can vary, and it’s essential for patients to do thorough research, seek recommendations, and verify the credentials and reviews of doctors and healthcare facilities before undergoing any medical treatment.
Do Hospitals In Mexico Take Insurance?
Hospitals in Mexico may accept insurance, but it varies depending on the hospital and the type of insurance you have. Here are some key points to consider:
- Mexican Hospitals and Insurance: Many private hospitals in Mexico accept international health insurance. However, it’s important to confirm with the specific hospital and your insurance provider beforehand.
- Travel Insurance: If you’re traveling to Mexico, it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Make sure the policy is valid in Mexico and covers the activities you plan to do.
- Private vs. Public Hospitals: Public hospitals in Mexico might not accept foreign health insurance. These hospitals are generally less expensive than private ones, but they might not offer the same level of comfort or facilities. Private hospitals are more likely to accept international insurance and often provide higher quality care.
- Direct Payment: In some cases, hospitals might require payment upfront, regardless of whether you have insurance. You would then need to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider.
- Insurance Network: Check if the hospital is within your insurance provider’s network. Some insurance plans have agreements with specific hospitals in Mexico.
- Mexican Health Insurance: If you’re a resident in Mexico, you might consider getting a local health insurance plan, which would be widely accepted across hospitals in the country.
Always verify with your insurance provider and the hospital in question to understand the specifics of your coverage. It’s also a good idea to have a plan for how to handle medical emergencies while in Mexico.
What should I do if I have a medical emergency in Cancun
If you face a medical emergency in Cancun, Mexico, it’s important to know the right steps to take for immediate and effective care:
1. Call Emergency Services:
Dial 911 for medical emergencies in Cancun. This is the universal emergency number in Mexico, providing access to immediate medical assistance.
2. Know the Location of Nearest Hospital:
Familiarize yourself with the locations of hospitals nearby, especially those that cater to tourists and have English-speaking staff. In Cancun, several private hospitals have good reputations for treating tourists.
3. Travel Insurance or Health Insurance:
If you have travel or health insurance, have your policy details handy. Some policies offer support services that can guide you in emergencies.
4. Consulate or Embassy Assistance:
Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Mexico. They can provide assistance in emergencies, including medical ones. The US Consular Agency is located at Km 13 ZH, Torre La Europea, Office 301, Blvd. Kukulcan, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico and the phone number is +52 55 8526 2561
The UK British Consulate is located at Punta Nizuc – Cancún, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico, and the phone number is +52 998 881 0100
5. Inform Your Hotel:
If you’re staying at a hotel, inform the hotel staff immediately. They can often assist in calling for an ambulance and can provide information about the nearest medical facilities.
6. Be Prepared for Payment:
Be prepared that you might need to make an upfront payment at private hospitals, even if you have insurance. Keep a credit card or cash accessible for such situations.
7. Medical Evacuation Insurance:
If you have medical evacuation insurance and need specialized care not available in Cancun, this insurance can be a lifesaver.
8. Carry Important Medical Information:
Always carry information about any medical conditions you have, medications you’re taking, and emergency contact details.
9. Pharmacies for Minor Issues:
For minor medical issues, pharmacies in Cancun are well-equipped and pharmacists can offer advice and over-the-counter medication.
10. Stay Calm and Seek Help:
In any emergency, try to stay calm and seek help from those around you.
Remember, the key is to act quickly and seek professional medical assistance immediately in the case of a medical emergency. We also wrote these blogs about being sick while in Cancun and how not to get sick while in Cancun.
Explore Cancún: Your Guide to Top Hospitals and Medical Care
If you were curious about the quality of healthcare in Cancún, now you have an idea. The city has numerous health facilities providing top-notch services to residents and tourists. However, the quality varies from facility to facility, and not all facilities have English-speaking staff. Therefore, consider the top three options we’ve shared and do additional research to identify the best institution for your needs.
If you’re curious about emergency services, check out our blog post on how to dial emergency services in Cancún here.
