City in California, United States
Healthcare in San Diego: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in San Diego
Good hospitals at US prices; uninsured ER visits cost thousands. Urgent-care clinics handle minor problems for $150–250.
Hospitals for foreigners in San Diego
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| UC San Diego Health (Hillcrest) | Level I trauma centre near downtown |
| Sharp Memorial Hospital | Kearny Mesa; large private hospital |
| Scripps Mercy Hospital | Hillcrest; full-service private hospital |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $160–350 ($160–350) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In United States: Excellent care at the world's highest prices: an uninsured ER visit can cost thousands of dollars and a hospital stay far more. Travel insurance with high medical cover is essential.
- Pharmacies: CVS and Walgreens are everywhere, some open 24 hours. Many medicines need a US prescription; urgent-care clinics handle minor issues.
- Health spending: US$13,473 per person a year (2023); 3.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter United States, 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 San Diego for foreigners?
UC San Diego Health (Hillcrest): Level I trauma centre near downtown
How much does a doctor's visit cost in San Diego?
About $160–350 ($160–350) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for United States?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in United States expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about San Diego
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United States
- San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)
- San Diego International Airport
- San Diego Tourism Authority
- City of San Diego Public Utilities (water)
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.