The Global Expat Hub
Costa RicaHealthcare score 74/100 (strong): quality, access for foreign residents, waiting times and out-of-pocket cost.
How to access care while you're there
- On a research tripTravel insurance covers you. For minor issues, pharmacies in Costa Rica handle far more than at home; walk-in private clinics in San José see tourists same-day.
- EmergencyKnow the emergency number, the nearest 24-hour emergency department in San José and Escazú, and whether ambulances are public or private.Numbers and hospitals · editorial slot
- First months as a residentMost visas require private cover before public enrolment; international plans bridge the gap. Register with a GP or family doctor early.
- Joining the public systemWho qualifies, when cover starts, whether residency alone is enough and what you'll still pay.Where: health authority · town hall
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Private hospitalsAccredited hospitals in San José with English-speaking staff and emergency departments.💊
PrescriptionsBring a year of regular medication with original prescriptions; which drugs are restricted.🦷
Dental, optical & mental healthUsually outside public cover; typical private prices.Costs to expect
Compare a GP visit, a specialist consult, a private hospital night and a common prescription. Editorial price table slot.
Official & reference sources
Labelled partner · Advertise with usInternational health insurer partnerPlans that satisfy Costa Rica's visa proof and cover private hospitals
One labelled partner per page. Paid placements never influence the Costa Rica liveability score, safety rating or warnings.
Starter content generated from the country data model. Replace with sourced, dated copy before launch. Last reviewed: not yet.