City, Bolivia
Healthcare in Santa Cruz: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Santa Cruz
Bolivia's best private care, with decent English at big clinics. Expect payment upfront; some serious cases are airlifted abroad.
Hospitals for foreigners in Santa Cruz
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Clínica Foianini | Leading private hospital; works with international insurers |
| Hospital Japonés | Large public hospital; cheaper, crowded |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Bs150–300 ($12–25) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Bolivia: Private clinics in La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba work with international insurers and want payment upfront. Public hospitals are overstretched; remote areas have little emergency care.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are everywhere and sell many drugs without prescription, but some medicines are scarce; bring a full supply.
- Health spending: US$255 per person a year (2023); 1.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 110 · Ambulance 118 · Fire 119.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Bolivia, 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 Santa Cruz for foreigners?
Clínica Foianini: Leading private hospital; works with international insurers
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Santa Cruz?
About Bs150–300 ($12–25) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Bolivia?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Bolivia expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Santa Cruz
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Bolivia
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bolivia
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 Spotted something out of date?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.