Health Care

Most of Costa Rica’s citizens subscribe to the government-sponsored national health care system maintained by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS). The CCSS has the responsibility of providing quality, low cost health care to all of Costa Rica’s working citizens and their dependents. Not only does the CCSS provide universal health care coverage to its citizens, but non-citizens are also permitted to partake in the system.  

There is a network of 29 hospitals throughout Costa Rica that provides modern, reliable medical service. Doctors at these hospitals usually receive their initial training in Costa Rica and obtain more advanced training in their specialty in other countries. There are also more than 250 small clinics scattered throughout Costa Rica that provide quality health care even in the remotest parts of the country.  

There are several choices for health insurance coverage in Costa Rica. One can buy into the CCSS’s services for a small monthly fee and have access to all of its hospitals, clinics and services. The fee is based on your income.  There is a three-page application to fill out An interview with an agent is required.  It covers pre-existing conditions, prescriptions, doctor visits, hospitalization and dental and eye care and there is no dollar limit to annual coverage. The drawback to this coverage is the long lines and waits associated with  public hospitals and clinics. 

Non-Costa Rican citizens can also buy health insurance from the INS (Instituto de Seguro Nacional).  This private health insurance permits the insured access to private hospitals. Rates vary depending on age and gender and the policy only covers up to $18,000 annually. It also does not cover pre-existing conditions. Private hospitals are often less crowded and provide more personalized service, usually without the long wait associated with public hospitals.  Many doctors work for both the CCSS and have private offices as well.  Quality health care is available with both options.

A third option is available. You can purchase an international health care insurance plan available to U.S. citizens living abroad.  There are many companies and options, just look up “international health care” on the internet to explore your options.

Pharmacies are commonly used in place of a doctor’s visit for minor illnesses. Pharmacists are well educated and able to diagnose and treat common illnesses and are permitted to distribute medications.  Most medicines are available without prescriptions: only narcotics and addictive drugs require a prescription. All pharmacies are required to have a pharmacist on the premises in order to be open for business.