Medical Care in Mexico

First I want to say that if America was lucky enough to have a medical system like Mexico, then there would not be the legions of American families drowning under insurance premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and medical bills that the insurance refuses to cover. You may think I am joking, but I am not.

Since we have lived in Mexico for one year, it is now time for us to start seeking the routine check-ups that we all need to keep healthy. Since my mother is a breast cancer survivor, my first priority was a mammogram. I had a recommendation from a fellow cruiser for a mammogram clinic and I walked there to set up an appointment. The clinic was very clean and well cared for, with marble tile floors. It was a little small by American standards, and there were no live plants or aquariums. OK - I can live with that.

Imagine my surprise when the receptionist tells me they have time for me right then! What? I don't have to wait three weeks for an appointment? Wow. My name was taken, my age and nothing else. No forms to fill out, no Social Security number to provide. Wow. I was ushered back to the room shortly. The mammogram was taken. Then the x-ray technician walked the mammogram films to the doctor who looked them over. If the doctor found anything concerning like a cyst, he would perform an ultrasound RIGHT THEN to get a better picture of the cyst. The ultrasound was FREE OF CHARGE - just part of the service they provide! When I was all finished in about 30 minutes, they told me that my films would be ready to be picked up the following morning. What? I get to keep my own films so I can bring them to any doctor I want for a second opinion? Amazing. No filing system, no billing office, no records department = little overhead.

Are you ready to hear how much this amazing service cost? It's hard to believe. This entire service cost me $650 pesos, at an exchange rate of 12 to 1, that is about $60 US. Total.

I was very impressed by my experience. Next the dentist!
Laura