Capital city, Costa Rica
Healthcare in San José: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in San José
Good private care at lower prices than the US. Public CCSS hospitals can have long waits for foreigners. Dial 911; many people take a taxi to a private ER.
Hospitals for foreigners in San José
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital CIMA San José | Private, Escazú; English-speaking staff, emergency room |
| Hospital Clínica Bíblica | Private, downtown; international patient office |
| Hospital La Católica | Private, Guadalupe; full emergency service |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₡40,000–80,000 ($88–175) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Costa Rica: High-quality care; private hospitals in San José such as CIMA and Clínica Bíblica are good value. Public hospitals stabilise visitors in emergencies, then charge.
- Pharmacies: Fischel, Sucre and FarmaValue are everywhere; pharmacists give advice and many medicines need no prescription.
- Health spending: US$1,163 per person a year (2023); 2.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Costa Rica, 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 José for foreigners?
Hospital CIMA San José: Private, Escazú; English-speaking staff, emergency room
How much does a doctor's visit cost in San José?
About ₡40,000–80,000 ($88–175) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Costa Rica?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Costa Rica expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about San José
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Costa Rica
- Juan Santamaría International Airport
- Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT)
- Costa Rica Social Security (CCSS)
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 Spotted something out of date?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.