Navigating Healthcare & Insurance in Puerto Vallarta:
What You Need to Know
One of the BIGGEST concerns people have when moving to PV is healthcare and insurance. If you’ve been wondering how medical care works in Mexico, how much it costs, and what your options are—this guide is for you!
✅ Is Healthcare in Puerto Vallarta Good? Here’s What Expats Say
The good news? Medical care in Mexico is high-quality, affordable, and accessible. Many expats actually prefer the care here compared to back home because:
✔️ Doctors take their time & truly listen (No rushed 5-minute appointments!)
✔️ Same-day or next-day appointments (No waiting months to see a specialist!)
✔️ Affordable pricing (Even without insurance, out-of-pocket costs are often lower than U.S. co-pays!)
✅ 3 Best Healthcare Options for Expats in PV
There are three main options for healthcare coverage in Puerto Vallarta:
🩺 Private Healthcare & Insurance
Many expats choose to get private insurance to cover major medical events.
Monthly premiums range from $50-$300 USD, depending on age & coverage.
With private insurance, you can go to top private hospitals like CMQ, San Javier, or Punta Mita Hospital.
Some international health insurance plans also cover care in Mexico—always check your policy!
🏥 IMSS (Mexican Social Security)
If you become a Temporary or Permanent Resident, you can apply for IMSS, Mexico’s public healthcare system.
Costs around $600/year per person.
Covers doctor visits, specialists, hospitalizations, and medications.
Downsides: Longer wait times, not all doctors speak English, and pre-existing conditions may not be covered.
💵 Paying Out-of-Pocket (Self-Pay)
Many expats skip insurance altogether because medical costs are so low!
Routine doctor visits range from $25-$50 USD.
Urgent care or specialist visits often cost under $100 USD.
Even major procedures (surgeries, dental work, etc.) are a fraction of what they cost in the U.S. or Canada.
✅ Private Healthcare vs IMSS: Which One Should You Choose?
Private insurance is best if you want access to top hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and faster care.
IMSS is an affordable option if you qualify, but expect longer wait times.
Self-pay works well if you rarely visit doctors and prefer paying out-of-pocket when needed.
✅ How Much Does Healthcare Cost in Puerto Vallarta?
Routine doctor visits: $25-$50 USD
Specialist appointments: $50-$100 USD
Urgent care visits: $50-$150 USD
Hospital stays: Significantly cheaper than U.S. prices, but varies by hospital.
Health insurance: $50-$300 USD per month, depending on coverage and age.
✅ Can You Pay Out-of-Pocket for Medical Care in Mexico?
Yes! Many expats don’t carry insurance because out-of-pocket costs are so low. If you only need occasional medical care, self-pay can be a great option!
✅ Best Hospitals in Puerto Vallarta for Expats
✔️ CMQ Hospital (Two locations: Riviera Nayarit & PV) – Excellent private hospital with English-speaking staff.
✔️ San Javier Hospital – High-end medical facility, popular among expats.
✔️ Punta Mita Hospital – Modern private hospital with emergency care.
✔️ IMSS Hospitals – For residents enrolled in public healthcare (longer wait times, but affordable).
✅ Where to Find Affordable Medications & Pharmacies in PV
✔️ Many medications are available over-the-counter without a prescription.
✔️ Some stronger medications (like narcotics) require a doctor’s prescription.
✔️ Pharmacies are everywhere, including Farmacias Similares, Farmacias Guadalajara, and Ahorro, which offer affordable generic versions.
✅ How to Get the Right Health Insurance in Puerto Vallarta
This is where having the right guidance makes all the difference! 🏥💙
✔️ In my 1-on-1 Relocation Consultations, I help clients:
✅ Find English-speaking doctors, specialists & hospitals
✅ Understand which insurance plans work best for their situation
✅ Get insider tips on navigating Mexico’s healthcare system without stress
✅ Learn where to find medications & what to expect at pharmacies
📅 Ready to Take the Stress Out of Healthcare?
💻 Book a 1-on-1 Relocation Consultation via Zoom – Get all your healthcare questions answered before you even arrive!
🚗 Join a VIP Neighborhood Tour – See which areas have the best hospitals & medical services near you!
📦 Choose a Relocation Package – From Starter to VIP, our tailored packages make moving to PV seamless with expert guidance, personalized tours, and hands-on support.
You DON’T have to navigate this alone. Moving to PV should be exciting, not overwhelming! Let’s make sure you feel fully prepared to live your best (and healthiest!) life in paradise. 🌴🏥😊
💬 Contact me if you need personalized guidance! Email: dez@mydeztination.com
Your Path to Paradise
Discover our exclusive relocation packages designed to make your move to Puerto Vallarta seamless, exciting, and stress-free. Choose the level of service that fits your needs, from starting your journey to indulging in VIP experiences.
Starter Relocation Kit
$299 USD
- 🌟 1-hour consultation
- 📍 Customized neighborhood recommendations
- ✔️ Digital Relocation Guide with checklists for packing, immigration, and settling in
- 📱 24-hour WhatsApp text support for follow-up questions
🏆 Essentials Experience – #1 Best-Seller!
$599 USD
- ✅ Everything in the Starter Kit
- 🌎 3-hour private neighborhood tour
- 🤝 3-hour personal assistance session
- 🗂️ Customized transition plan for your move
Ultimate Experience
$1,500 USD
- ✅ Everything in the Essentials Package
- 👔 1-week concierge support
- 🚖 Airport pickup & transportation
- 🏠 Housing search assistance
VIP Experience
$5,000–$7,500+ USD
- ✅ Everything in the Ultimate Package
- 🛫 Pre-arrival concierge services
- 📞 24/7 on-call concierge for 2 weeks
- 🎉 Luxury tours & lifestyle integration
Meet Dez:
Your Relocation Expert in Puerto Vallarta 🌴
Hi, I’m Dez, a California-born, Pacific Northwest-raised adventurer who turned a solo trip to Puerto Vallarta into a life-changing journey. Seven years ago, I made the leap to move to this stunning coastal paradise, and it’s been the best decision of my life.
After years of navigating my own relocation challenges—from learning Spanish to building a network of trustworthy locals—I’ve become an expert in all things Puerto Vallarta. Whether you need guidance on residency, rental properties, or the best hidden beaches, I’ve got the connections and knowledge to make your move seamless.
What I love most? Helping people like you turn the dream of living in Mexico into reality. Watching my clients’ stress melt away during consultations is what fuels my passion. From relocation consultations to neighborhood tours and personal assistance, I’m here to make your transition as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Let’s make Puerto Vallarta your new home, the easy way.
xo, Dez
Discover Everything I Offer
From unforgettable Puerto Vallarta activities to comprehensive relocation services, I’m here to make your transition seamless and exciting. Whether you're looking for personalized relocation consultations, hands-on assistance, tailored packages, or local tours to explore the best neighborhoods, I’ve got you covered. Let’s make your dream life in Mexico a reality!
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Let’s make your dream of relocating to Puerto Vallarta a reality. From consultations to comprehensive relocation packages, I’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Book Your Appointment Now🩺 Frequently Asked Questions: Healthcare in Puerto Vallarta
Wondering how healthcare works in PV? Here are the most common questions expats ask when moving to paradise! 🌴
🏥 Is Healthcare in Puerto Vallarta High-Quality?
Yes! Many expats prefer healthcare in PV over their home countries. Doctors take their time, appointments are faster, and costs are lower—even for private hospitals.
🩺 What Are My Healthcare Options in PV?
There are three main options: Private Insurance (most expats choose this), IMSS (Mexico’s public healthcare system), or paying out-of-pocket (many services are very affordable).
💰 How Much Does Medical Care Cost in PV?
Doctor visits range from $25-$50 USD, specialist visits around $100 USD, and emergency care is often under $500 USD. Even major surgeries cost a fraction of U.S. prices.
📋 Do I Need Private Health Insurance?
Private insurance is recommended for major medical coverage. Monthly premiums range from $50–$300 USD, depending on your age and plan.
🏥 Can I Use Mexico’s Public Healthcare (IMSS)?
Yes, Temporary & Permanent Residents can apply for IMSS. It’s around $600 USD per year per person, but wait times may be longer, and not all doctors speak English.
💊 How Do I Get Prescription Medications in PV?
Many medications are available over-the-counter. For stronger medications (like opioids or anxiety meds), you’ll need a prescription from a licensed Mexican doctor.
🗣️ Are There English-Speaking Doctors & Hospitals?
Yes! Many private hospitals, clinics, and specialists cater to expats and offer bilingual services.
🚑 What Should I Do in a Medical Emergency?
Call 911 (Spanish-speaking) or go to CMQ, San Javier, or Hospital Joya, which are top private hospitals with English-speaking staff.
🤔 How Do I Find the Right Doctor, Hospital, or Insurance?
I can help! I offer relocation consultations where I connect you with trusted doctors, specialists, hospitals, and insurance providers based on your needs.
📅 How Can I Get Expert Help with Healthcare in PV?
Book a 1-on-1 Relocation Consultation to get personalized guidance on doctors, hospitals, insurance, and prescriptions in Puerto Vallarta. Click here to book.
Bring Your Pet To Mexico
Moving to Mexico or even going for an extended stay doesn’t mean you have to leave your pet behind! Pet travel is stressful on both you and your pet, but there are many steps you can take to make this process as easy as possible. Check out my article The Ultimate Guide: Traveling with your Pet to Mexico!