City in Bolívar, Colombia
Healthcare in Cartagena: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Cartagena
Private clinics are adequate for minor care; complex cases go to Bogotá or Medellín. Insurance with evacuation cover is wise before island trips.
Hospitals for foreigners in Cartagena
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Naval de Cartagena | Large hospital in Bocagrande; serves civilians too |
| Clínica Bocagrande | Private clinic near the beach hotels |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $120,000–250,000 ($36–75) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Colombia: Private hospitals in Bogotá and Medellín are excellent and affordable by Western standards; rural care is limited. Travel insurance is recommended.
- Pharmacies: Droguerías are everywhere, many open 24 h with home delivery; many medicines are sold without a prescription.
- Health spending: US$644 per person a year (2024); 2.5 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 123 · Ambulance 123 · Fire 119 · All emergencies 123.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Colombia, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Cartagena for foreigners?
Hospital Naval de Cartagena: Large hospital in Bocagrande; serves civilians too
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Cartagena?
About $120,000–250,000 ($36–75) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Colombia?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Colombia expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Cartagena
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Colombia
- Cartagena tourism (Corpoturismo)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.