Los Cabos Healthcare: Quality Hospitals?

Los Cabos is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason—it offers activities, adventure, and natural beauty. However, it is important to consider the quality of medical care in the area before travelling there. While Mexican hospitals have been portrayed in a negative light, hospitals in Los Cabos are equipped with up-to-date equipment and are used to treating various emergencies and illnesses. There are several hospitals in the region, including Hospital H+, Saint Luke's Hospital, and BlueNet Hospitals, that offer state-of-the-art treatments and 24/7 emergency services. However, it is worth noting that medical malpractice laws in Mexico differ from those in other countries, and seeking legal recourse in the event of malpractice can be challenging.

Pros and cons of Los Cabos hospitals

Los Cabos, Mexico, is home to several hospitals and medical clinics, including Hospital General, H+, BlueNet Hospitals (BNH), Hospital de Especialidades, Saint Luke's Hospital, and Amerimed Hospital. While the availability of medical facilities in Los Cabos is a definite advantage, there are both pros and cons to the region's healthcare system.

Pros

One of the significant advantages of seeking medical attention in Los Cabos is the relatively lower cost of healthcare services compared to the United States. Additionally, some hospitals in Los Cabos, such as H+ Hospital, offer state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, promising to deliver a new level of quality healthcare to the region. Los Cabos hospitals also provide easy access to both San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, making them convenient options for those in the area.

Another benefit is the availability of bilingual doctors, medical staff, and nurses in some hospitals, such as CMC and Amerimed Hospital. This can be especially helpful for English-speaking patients who may have limited Spanish proficiency.

Cons

One of the main concerns regarding hospitals in Los Cabos is the potential for medical care to fall below foreign standards. There is also no malpractice remedy in Mexico, which means patients must be vigilant and consult with their physicians back home to ensure they are receiving appropriate treatment.

Additionally, some hospitals, such as Amerimed and Saint Luke's Hospital, have received negative reviews and warnings from travellers, with Amerimed even being shut down by the Mexican government for ripping off tourists.

It is also important to note that hospitals in Los Cabos may have separate fees for locals and vacationers, and insurance coverage can vary. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with your insurance company before travelling to Los Cabos to understand your coverage options.

In conclusion, while Los Cabos offers a range of hospitals and medical facilities, it is essential to be aware of the potential pros and cons of seeking medical attention in the region. Patients should consider the quality of care, language barriers, insurance coverage, and the reputation of the healthcare facilities to make informed decisions about their healthcare choices in Los Cabos.

Recommended hospitals in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is a popular tourist destination in Mexico, and it is important to know where to go in case of a medical emergency. While the standard of medical care in Mexico may not always be up to foreign standards, there are still some good hospitals in Los Cabos. Here are some recommended hospitals in the area:

Hospital H+ Los Cabos

Hospital H+ Los Cabos is a new, state-of-the-art hospital that promises to deliver a new level of quality healthcare to the region. It is located at Km. 24.5 on the Transpeninsular Highway, with easy access between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. The hospital has over 6,000 square meters of space, with 16 single patient rooms and 4 intensive care units, as well as a pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, and imaging services. H+ Group is a highly respected Mexican hospital group that works with many national and international insurance companies.

BlueNet Hospitals (BNH)

BlueNet Hospitals is a leading provider of medical care for both local and international patients in Los Cabos. They offer state-of-the-art treatments, highly personalized services, and innovative technologies in a friendly and safe environment. Their facilities include a 24/7 emergency room, intensive care unit (ICU), clinical laboratory, imaging centre, pharmacy, and doctors' offices. BlueNet has received positive reviews from patients, with some praising the helpful and knowledgeable staff.

Hospital de Especialidades (Specialties Hospital)

Hospital de Especialidades is located in Cabo San Lucas and has been serving the region since 1993. They offer specialized medicine, x-rays, laboratory services, ambulance services, and a drugstore. The hospital is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is part of a highly respected Mexican hospital group.

Amerimed Hospital

Amerimed Hospital is a 24-hour facility with bilingual in-house physicians. However, there is a warning that this hospital was shut down once by the Mexican government for ripping off tourists.

It is always a good idea to have travel insurance and to check with your insurance company before seeking medical treatment, as some hospitals may not be covered by your policy. Additionally, it is recommended to have a high-limit credit card in case of unexpected medical expenses.

English-speaking doctors in Los Cabos

There are several English-speaking doctors in Los Cabos. While it is always beneficial to know some Spanish, especially in an emergency, you can get by with English in Los Cabos. Most services are very willing to help, even if they have to use hand signals and pointing.

Hospitals

There are several hospitals in the Los Cabos area, including in Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz. Here are some of the hospitals in the region:

• Hospital General
• H+
• Hospital de Especialidades (Specialties Hospital)
• BlueNet Hospitals (BNH)
• Amerimed Hospital
• AMC Hospital

Doctors

• Dr. Miguel Cortes: Fluent in English, friendly, and knowledgeable.
• Dra. Alma Vazquez Lomas: English-speaking doctor with X-ray, ultrasound, and laboratory facilities.

Other Medical Services

In addition to hospitals and doctors, there are other medical services available in Los Cabos, including:

• Medica Los Cabos Medical Clinic: English spoken with 24-hour care, surgery, lab, X-rays, and ultrasound.
• Chiropractors and chiropractic treatments
• Mental health specialists, nutritionists, and dieticians
• Alternative medicine clinicians offering holistic practices, acupuncture, and body detoxification
• Life-flight services

Medical costs in Los Cabos

Los Cabos has become a popular destination for medical tourism, especially for Americans. The region has a wealth of healthcare professionals and facilities, and has attracted top medical talent. The hospitals and doctors in Los Cabos are accustomed to treating a variety of emergencies and illnesses, and are equipped with up-to-date equipment.

The cost of medical treatment in Los Cabos is significantly lower than in the United States. A single day in a US hospital costs around $1,514, while healthcare costs in Mexico are less than $120 per day, according to the World Health Organization. A routine doctor's visit in the US costs around $176, while in Mexico, it costs around $40. Specialist consultations in Los Cabos range from $35 to $58.

There are several hospitals in Los Cabos that cater to medical tourists, including Spanish hospital brand Hospiten and Saint Luke's hospitals, which operate multiple private facilities in the region. Other hospitals in the region include Hospital General, H+, Hospital de Especialidades, Hospital CMC, and BlueNet Hospitals.

It is important to note that there have been complaints from American tourists, particularly regarding emergency care services at Saint Luke's hospital in Cabo San Lucas. Some tourists have reported issues with withholding personal documents due to payment problems. Therefore, it is recommended to get Mexican health insurance or travel insurance that includes air evacuation to the US, as well as ensuring you have a high-limit credit card.

Additionally, while prescription drugs in Los Cabos are significantly cheaper than in the US and Canada, there have been concerns about counterfeit pills being sold in the area. It is advisable to refrain from purchasing medicines outside established pharmacy chains to avoid any issues.

Medical tourism in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is a popular medical tourism destination in Mexico. It offers highly skilled medical professionals, cutting-edge technology, and significantly lower costs for major medical procedures. The growth of medical tourism in Los Cabos can be attributed to the substantial investment in new hospitals and state-of-the-art medical facilities. The proximity of Los Cabos to the US and Canada, as well as its excellent air connections, also makes it a favourable medical destination.

Medical tourists can fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which offers transportation services such as taxis, shuttles, and Uber. The airport serves both cities and receives national and international flights. Medical tourists can expect to receive outstanding medical care and treatments at hospitals such as Saint Luke's Hospital, which is part of the Saint Luke's Hospital Group with over 12 years of experience providing advanced specialty healthcare to the Los Cabos community. Saint Luke's Hospital offers travel packages that include airport pickup and accommodation arrangements, as well as access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

Other hospitals in Los Cabos include Hospital General, H+, Hospiten, and BlueNet Hospitals (BNH). BlueNet Hospitals is a leading provider of medical care for local and international patients, offering state-of-the-art treatments, highly personalised services, and innovative technologies in a friendly and safe environment. H+ Hospital is a new, state-of-the-art facility that promises to deliver a new level of quality healthcare to the region.

Medical tourists can expect to pay a different fee than locals, but even the higher fee for vacationers is considered reasonable. The cost of medical procedures in Mexico is a fraction of the costs in the US and Canada, and there are no long waiting periods to see a doctor. However, it is important to note that medical malpractice remedies may not be up to foreign standards, and some physicians can be lax. It is recommended that patients always pay attention and consult their physician at home frequently if they need medical attention in Los Cabos.

Frequently asked questions