Mexico, the border nation of the United States, has grown into one of the most livable countries for expats. For expats, Mexico’s real attraction is its healthcare system, with all of the country’s beautiful structures and sights an added bonus. The country has in place two types of healthcare systems, private and universal insurance programs.
In order to improve their healthcare system even further, the country developed a program called Popular Health Insurance (Seguro Popular) in 2004. The program aimed to make preventative treatments less costly for the less economically wealthy.
Since the program’s initiation, 50 million uninsured residents have benefitted from it. Furthermore, the threat of contracting tuberculosis and malaria has also seen a steady decline. In comparison to some areas of Africa and Asia, Mexico fares far better as a livable state for expats. However, it would be unfair to say that Mexico’s low cost of living did not play a part in its tourism growth.
Low Cost of Living: Living the Dream
The low cost of living is one of the main drivers of Mexico, attracting retirees, families, and people that want to live in a lap of luxury. For instance, a three-course meal for two in a good restaurant will cost you $45 in the United States whereas in Mexico, it will cost you $21.94. Just look at the price difference in a .33-liter water bottle. In the United States, it will cost you $1.30 and in Mexico, $0.55.
Hence, it is no wonder why expats choose Mexico as the country to reside in. They can live a comfortable life without having to worry about not being able to pay the bills on time. Due to the low cost of living, they are able to afford the best in health care, opting for private health care insurance.
The Perks of Private Health Care Insurance
By taking out private health care insurance, expats have the advantage of being able to afford the best in medical care in Mexico. Private health care insurance provides them with access to high quality special treatments and services.
The medical treatments and services are at half the value than in the United States. It has become one of the main incentives for foreign visitors who come to live or seek medical care. Moreover, most of the medical professionals have received majority of their training and education in the United States.
Plus, the cost of prescription drugs costs about 50 percent less than in the United States. People planning to reside in Mexico or visit it for medical treatments should choose the following cities as their home:
1.- Lake Chapala- has the largest community of retired Americans and is the residence of 10,000 Americans and Canadians. It offers it foreign residents with several amenities such as yoga classes, bridge clubs, and restaurants.
2.- San Miguel de Allende- Is close to the United States and offers expats golf courses, retail stores, and an inexpensive cost of living.
3.- Puerto Vallarta- Is a peaceful community with a grand view of the tropical mountains and the Banderas Bay.
Affordable health care and a low cost of living—what else can you ask for?
Very interesting and useful information! Thank you!