Health Care
Health care is one of the most important factors to consider if you move abroad. This is a hot topic right now, especially for the 40 million Americans who can't afford health insurance in the U.S.
We've got you covered: Learn where to find the best-quality, most affordable health care in the world from our expert expats, who share their overseas health care experiences.
The Truth About the Yellow Fever Vaccination
Date: 10/15/2008
Oct. 15, 2008
Panama City, Panama
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Dear Panama Insider,
Some media sources are reporting that, due to a new law, you won't be able to visit Panama without a yellow fever vaccination certificate. That's not exactly true. The law applies only to travelers coming from or going to certain countries. This is not a new thing—the Panama government has in the past required the certificate for travel to and from "potential risk" countries, such as Brazil.
Until now, the list of risk countries was pretty short. Now, the Panama government says it will require the certificate for travel to and from every country listed as a "yellow fever transmission country" by the World Health Organization (WHO). That's over 40 countries. For a list, visit the Panama Ministry of Health website.
In general, if you are traveling to or from Central America, North America, or Europe, you won't need the vaccination.
Read On
Sunshine, Snorkeling…and Hassle-free Health Care
Date: 07/27/2008 Author: Brigid DarraghMonday, July 28, 2008
Read more about inexpensive health care overseas in International Living Postcards —your daily escape
Dear International Living Reader,
Imagine yourself snorkeling in the tropical sun and gin-clear waters off Thailand’s coast.
You pause for a rest and stand on what you think is a rock…and the water suddenly turns bright red.
It really happened to Brigid Darragh, and as a diver myself, it gave me a chill to read about it. But all’s well that ends well…read how the Thai medical system saved a vacation from turning into a horror story below.
Dan Prescher
Publisher, International Living
How One IL Reader Saved $14,910 on Surgery in Costa Rica
Date: 06/11/2008 Author: Dan PrescherThursday, June 12, 2008
Learn more about how to save money on health care overseas in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
Every day I’m reminded of the increasing cost of health care in the U.S. and the strategies the IL readers are coming up with to beat it.
For example, in a recent issue of International Living magazine, reader Patrick MacDowell told us an amazing story about saving 75% on his medical procedure in Costa Rica…this is even with his round-trip airfare included.
Here’s an excerpt from Patrick’s story:
Read On
How to Get Health Insurance for Less Than a Dollar a Day
Date: 06/10/2008 Author: Glynna Prentice
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Campeche, Mexico
Read more about finding affordable health care in Mexico in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
One of the most important things to consider before moving overseas is your access to quality health care. It’s something I always factor in when assessing the livability of any particular place. It was actually one of the deciding factors that prompted me to make the move to Mexico, which is known for its excellent and affordable medical care.
Read OnA Stitch in Time Saves $2,820 in a Spanish Emergency Room
Date: 05/20/2008Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Read more about getting cheaper health care abroad in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
I’m a dedicated consumer of overseas health services.
I’ve had shoulder surgery in Ecuador, eye surgery in Panama, and loads of dental work in Mexico. Doing a quick calculation compared with out-of-pocket prices in the U.S., I figure I’ve saved about $25,000 having my work done overseas...at no sacrifice in quality.
Read OnSave Thousands of Dollars With Surgery in Panama
Date: 05/19/2008
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Panama City, Panama
Read more about health care in Panama in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
Tens of thousands of medical tourists visit Bangkok, Singapore, and India every year. These patients are mainly European, but now many North Americans are beginning to follow this trend. Previously, if you needed top medical attention, you went to the U.S. Now patients are seeking the same excellent care abroad. Foreign countries are recognizing the need to provide medical care that is equal to, or surpasses, what is available in the U.S.—but at a much lower cost.
Read OnThe Mexican Answer to U.S. Health Care
Date: 03/18/2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Mérida, Mexico
Read more about where to find good-quality health care overseas in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
The U.S. health care system is overpriced and out of reach for millions of Americans…and Mexico has the answer.
According to Mexican news sources, Carlos Slim, Mexican business magnate and second-richest man on the planet, is planning a system of high-quality hospitals in Mexico specifically to cater to U.S. baby boomers.
Read OnThe Solution to Sky-high Taxes and Rocketing Health Care Costs
Date: 02/18/2008
Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008
Mérida, Mexico
Read more about Mexico in International Living Postcards—your daily escape
Over cocktails with a friend recently, discussion soon turned to real estate. My friend was a real estate broker for 30 years in the U.S. before moving to Mexico six years ago. Here in Mérida, he’s back in the game…couldn’t stop himself, he says, since he sees so much potential here.
Read On