If you are planning a vacation to Costa Rica—or even considering staying longer—you may find yourself asking an important and very practical question: What is the health care delivery system like in Costa Rica? This is a natural concern, especially for travelers who want peace of mind in case of illness, injury, or an unexpected medical situation.
Fortunately, Costa Rica has earned an international reputation for providing high-quality health care at a fraction of the cost found in the United States. In fact, many visitors are surprised to learn that Costa Rica’s health care system is often ranked among the best in Latin America and is frequently praised by expatriates, retirees, and long-term residents.
Much of the insight in this article comes from a piece written by Jo Stuart, a long-time resident of Costa Rica and a columnist for the English-language online newspaper AM Costa Rica. In her writing, Jo shares personal experiences and firsthand knowledge of Costa Rica’s government-sponsored universal health care system, offering a valuable perspective for anyone curious about medical care in the country.
A Universal Health Care System That Covers Everyone
Jo Stuart begins by comparing Costa Rica’s system to the ongoing health care debates in the United States. As she explains, while discussions about insurance, coverage, and cost continue to dominate political conversations in the U.S., Costa Rica resolved these issues decades ago.
Costa Rica offers a government-sponsored universal health care system that is available to all residents, including foreign residents, for a monthly fee. This system is managed by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), commonly referred to as “La Caja.”
One of the most notable features of Costa Rica’s universal health care is how it is funded. The monthly payment is income-based, meaning individuals contribute according to their financial means. In Jo’s words, “a person pays according to his means.” This makes the system accessible to people across all income levels.
Perhaps most reassuring is that no one is excluded for preexisting conditions, a major concern for older travelers, retirees, and those with chronic health issues.
How the System Works in Daily Life
When Jo enrolled in Costa Rica’s universal health care system, she was assigned both:
- A local clinic (known as an EBAIS)
- A regional hospital based on where she lived
This structure ensures continuity of care. Your assigned clinic becomes your primary point of contact for routine medical needs, while hospitals handle more specialized care.
If a particular specialist is not available at the assigned hospital, the system allows for authorized referrals to other hospitals or clinics where the required specialist practices. This means patients are not limited to one facility if their medical needs require expertise elsewhere.
Jo notes that, in her experience, this system has functioned efficiently and logically, particularly for serious medical needs.
Health Care for Seniors: The Gold Card Advantage
For those aged 65 and older, Costa Rica offers a special benefit known as the “gold card” (cédula de oro). Jo applied for and received this card, which comes with several privileges that greatly improve quality of life for seniors.
Benefits of the gold card include:
- Free public bus transportation
- Priority service at public banks
- Special service windows at health clinics, allowing seniors to avoid long waits
At clinics, seniors with a gold card often go to a designated window where they are seen more quickly, an enormous advantage for older adults who may struggle with long lines or extended waiting periods.
Dental and Eye Care Coverage
Another surprising aspect of Costa Rica’s universal health care system is that it includes dental and eye care—services that are often expensive or limited under insurance plans in other countries.
There are, however, some conditions:
- You must visit a dentist or eye care provider who participates in the system
- Services may be basic rather than cosmetic or elective
Still, having these services included under universal coverage significantly reduces out-of-pocket medical expenses and adds to the overall value of the system.
Private Health Care: An Excellent Alternative
In addition to the public system, Costa Rica also offers private health care, which is widely regarded as affordable, efficient, and high-quality. Many travelers and expatriates choose private care for convenience, shorter wait times, or English-speaking staff.
Private health insurance is available through multiple providers. One of the largest and most trusted is the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS), a government-sponsored private insurance program.
Two private hospitals frequently mentioned by English-speaking residents are:
- Hospital CIMA
- Clínica Bíblica
Both hospitals are modern, well-equipped, and staffed with highly trained physicians—many of whom studied or trained in the United States or Europe. Private insurance policies often allow patients to choose care at one of these facilities.
Even without insurance, private medical care in Costa Rica is far less expensive than in the U.S., making it a viable option for tourists who need immediate treatment.
Public Opinion: Mixed, But Largely Positive
As with any government-run system, Costa Rica’s universal health care has its critics. Some Costa Ricans and expatriates mention:
- Long waits for non-emergency procedures
- Lines at clinics
- Delays for certain specialist appointments
However, Jo Stuart emphasizes that over many years, she has received medical care equal to—or better than—what she experienced in the United States, and at a fraction of the cost.
One particularly compelling example she shares is the replacement of her pacemaker, which was originally implanted while she lived in the U.S. Jo reports that she was extremely satisfied with the Costa Rican doctors and hospital where the procedure was performed, noting both professionalism and quality of care.
Residency and Mandatory Enrollment
If you are planning not just a vacation but a move to Costa Rica, there is an important requirement to be aware of. New residents are required to enroll in the government universal health care system, regardless of whether they plan to use it or rely on private insurance.
While some may see this as a limitation, most residents find the monthly premium reasonable and affordable, especially when compared to international health insurance costs elsewhere.
What This Means for Tourists
For short-term visitors, Costa Rica’s health care system provides reassurance:
- Emergency care is available throughout the country
- Private clinics are accessible and affordable
- Pharmacies are well-stocked, and many medications are available without a prescription
Tourists are encouraged to carry travel insurance, but many are pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to receive medical care when needed.
Final Thoughts
If you are planning a vacation to Costa Rica, you can travel with confidence knowing that the country offers a strong, accessible, and affordable health care system. Whether through the government-sponsored universal system or the private medical sector, Costa Rica ensures that quality care is within reach.
Thanks to writers like Jo Stuart, whose personal experiences offer valuable insight, visitors can better understand what to expect and how to navigate medical care if the need arises.
For those considering longer stays or permanent relocation, Costa Rica’s health care system is often cited as one of the strongest reasons people choose to call this peaceful country home.
You can read more of Jo Stuart’s thoughtful and informative articles by searching AM Costa Rica and her column, “Living in Costa Rica”—where the living truly is good.