20 Facts About Healthcare In Colombia Every Expat Must Know

Are you looking for information on expat healthcare in Colombia? Here are the facts. Public healthcare is available, costs are low, quality of care is high, and medical facilities are well-equipped. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Expats are eligible for coverage, but doctors can be bureaucratic. And while Colombian healthcare is excellent, it’s not without its challenges. minutes

11/01/23

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About the author

Hi, I'm Marco Sison. I worked in finance for Fortune 50 companies before retiring early at 41 years old. I have been an expat for over 10 years, living in over 50 countries to show you the best ways to save, invest, and live in amazing countries outside the USA. I am a trusted resource on personal finance and overseas retirement for US News & World Reports, HuffPost, MSN Money, USA Today, ABC Network, Yahoo Finance, Association of MBAs, the iTunes documentary Seeking FIRE, and the Amazon Best-Seller- Abroad: Expats That Thrive.

Overview of the healthcare system in Colombia

QUICK SUMMARY- Colombian Healthcare Services

  • Colombian healthcare is of high quality. It’s the top-ranked country in Latin America but also beats out the US and Canada.
  • Healthcare in Colombia is affordable. Public plans come with extras like dental and vision benefits, as well as the ability to cover your spouse and children for free.
  • Expats can use private insurance plans to fill the gaps not provided by public plans, providing a higher standard of care, bilingual staff, and faster service for appointments.
  • The state of Colombian health care is in flux. Some companies have gone bankrupt. The high percentage of individuals enrolled causes frustrating wait times.
  • Older expats who need private health insurance might be frustrated to learn that premiums rise drastically at the age of 60, and some plans just stop altogether.

The World Health Organization ranks Colombia 22nd on its list of the world's top healthcare systems. Overall, the healthcare system is easily accessible and affordable, offering world-class health and medical facilities in urban centers. Case in point: Bogota, Medellin, and Cali have some of the best-ranked hospitals in South America. (Keep in mind that rural areas may not offer the same quality of care).

The country’s General Healthcare Social Security scheme (Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud, SGSSS) funds the
Colombian health insurance system and provides universal healthcare coverage to the population, including hospitals and clinics.

This post may contain affiliate links. I may get a commission if you purchase something using my link. Please note, there is NO ADDITIONAL COST to you. For more information, please see my disclosure.

6 Quick Tips To Prepare For A Move To Colombia

TIP 1. Understand Colombia's visa policy- A decade of experience living abroad taught me that a country's resident visa and permit situation can make or break a plan to move overseas. Chat with a Colombian visa attorney.

TIP 2. Know your health insurance requirements- Starting July 2022, the government requires all expats living in Colombia to purchase specific medical coverage that includes accidents, illness, hospitalization, disability, repatriation, maternity, and death. 

TIP 3. Save On Moving CostsInternational moves can get expensive. Save hundreds of dollars by getting accredited moving companies to compete for your business. Fill out a quick form, sit back and let our moving partners get you five free moving quotes from trusted and reliable international moving companies.

TIP 4. Set up a Traveling Mailbox- Change all your critical mailing addresses to a traveling mailbox. Don't lose an important tax return, bank statement, credit card, or government document in the mail. Sign up for a virtual mailbox, and you can keep a permanent US mailing address and check your mail via your phone or PC.

TIP 5. Prove your onward ticket- If you only have a tourist visa Colombia requires a mandatory departure ticket. You need a onward travel with a date leaving the country before your visa expires. Save money by using  an onward plane ticket for just $16

TIP 6. Pick up some Spanish Skills- The most common difficulty experienced by expats in Colombia is English being less common than expected. Only 4% of the country speaks English. You can get a free 7-day Spanish language crash course to make your move to Colombia easier.


20 Facts About Healthcare In Colombia Every Expat Must Know


Quality of healthcare in Colombia

The quality of healthcare in Colombia is, in a word, excellent. Ranked #22 by the World Health Organization, it is considered to be better than Canada (ranked #30) and the United States (ranked #37). Consider the following: if health care is a priority for you, especially if you are considering living in Colombia vs. other Latin American countries: a full 41% of Latin America's top hospitals are Colombian.

In fact, five hospitals in Colombia are internationally recognized for their world-class quality and are accredited with the Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission International (JCI), which globally identifies and scores healthcare quality and patient safety in healthcare organizations.

Colombian HospitalJCI Accreditation DateCity
Centro Medico Imbanaco2017Cali
Fundacion Cardioinfantil - Instituto de Cardiologia2013Bogotá
Fundacion Cardiovascular de Colombia-Hospital Internacional de Colombia-Instituto Cardiovascular2009Floridablanca
Hospital Pablo Tobon Uribe2015Medellin
Hospital Universitario Fundacion Santa Fe de Bogota2010 Bogotá

Quality Colombian health care is widely available in all major cities and towns, though the quantity and quality of clinics and medical services decline in remote rural areas. Colombian hospitals offer services from routine office visits to complex inpatient care such as joint replacements, organ transplants, stem cell therapy, and cancer treatment.

map showing other countries using healtcare  in Colombia for medical tourism

The quality of Colombia's healthcare system is receiving worldwide acclaim for medical tourism

Did You Know Most Expats In Colombia Need 3 Types of Health Insurance?

Starting in July 2022, the government passed a law requiring specific medical coverage for foreigners staying in Colombia. Click the button below to ensure you are legally staying in Colombia.

On top of quality, health care in Colombia is relatively inexpensive, especially compared with the US. As a result of this combination of quality and cost, Colombia’s healthcare system is growing the country's reputation in medical tourism. In fact, many foreigners now come to Colombia for healthcare, with transplants, joint replacement, dental treatment, and fertility treatments topping the list.

 INSIDER TIP : Plastic Surgery in Colombia – Unsurprisingly, Colombia has global renown for its cosmetic procedures. Not only are prices for plastic surgery 30% less than in the US or Europe, but the reputation of the healthcare system in Colombia extends to breast augmentation, butt lifts, and nose jobs.

Estimated plastic surgery prices Colombia vs USA

Header

USA

Colombia

Rhinoplasty

$7,800

$4,550

Tummy Tuck

$6,700

$4,500

Breast Augmentation

$6,800

$4,000

Brazilian  Butt Lift

$8,000

$5,000

More Guides On Living In Colombia

Colombia Identification Card: How Expats Get A Cedula De Extranjería
Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: How to Apply, Work Remote, And Live Cheap
How To Rent Apartments In Medellin Without Getting Scammed
How To Get Health Insurance In Colombia As A Foreigner
Expat Guide To Medellin Nightlife: Best Clubs, Party Areas, Bars, and Dancing
The Best Medellin Salsa Clubs [2023]
The Complete Expat Guide On How To Buy A Car in Colombia
How To Apply For A Colombia Tourist Visa [2023]
The Top 26 Reasons Why You Must Visit Colombia [2023]

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How to access public healthcare in Colombia

There are several factors to consider when choosing expat medical insurance coverage.

1) Purchase travel medical insurance before applying for a Colombian Visa-

As of July 2022, the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all expats applying for a visa to include proof of international health insurance. Depending on your age, citizenship, and required coverage, the cost of the health insurance may range from roughly $40 to $100 per month USD.

You can get free quotes from an accredited Colombian insurance specialist by filling out the form below.

Did You Know There Are 3 Types of Colombian Health Insurance Needed By Most Expats?

Starting in July 2022, specific medical coverage is required to legally stay in Colombia. Fill out the form to learn more from an insurance specialist. This is a FREE No-Obligation Service.

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2) Apply for your resident Visa-

Public health insurance in Colombia is available to all expat residents with a valid visa (retirement visa, marriage visa, or real estate investor visa are all eligible).

Tired of endless hours spent researching complicated visa requirements?

Knowing how frustrating it is to navigate a foreign country's immigration process, I started a new visa service to make life easier for expats who want to live and retire abroad,

I pre-screened and carefully selected Colombian lawyers with decades of expertise helping expats like you cut through the government red tape, clarify the visa options, and ease your worries about moving to a new country.

3) Obtain a Colombia Cedula ID Card to access public healthcare

You must visit the Migración Colombia office to obtain your cedula. These offices are located in all the major cities in Colombia. You can start the process by booking an appointment online and filling out an application form on the Migración Colombia website. Afterward, head to a Migración Colombia office to submit your documents, get digital fingerprints, and have your photograph taken. Your cedula identification card will be ready for pickup in two weeks, four if the immigration office is slammed with applications.

4) Apply for mandatory EPS Insurance-

For more information on EPS insurance in Colombia, check out this detailed article on Colombian health insurance, which gives you more details on the costs, the process, and who is eligible.

After obtaining your visa, head to the migración office to register it and attach it to your cédula. You can then apply for EPS two ways:

  1. Compare providers using an independent Colombian Insurance Agent, or
  2. Directly through an intermediary like SURA that acts as your insurance administrator.

Once you are approved, coverage starts immediately.

Your cedula acts as a health insurance card. To use your insurance, you must present your cédula to the doctor´s office, hospital, lab, or other medical facilities. All your medical records are linked to your cedula number.

5) Pay for your Colombian Health Insurance-

 The cost of EPS is based on your income, but expat coverage usually starts around $50 per month. Most retired expats' premiums will average less than $85 per month with Colombian public insurance. But that price covers your spouse and any minor dependent children at no additional charge.

Basic healthcare includes medical, dental, and vision benefits. By law, every EPS insurance provider must offer the same basic coverage for the same price.

6) Use your EPS to access affordable healthcare services-

Colombia operates their EPS healthcare system like a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) in the United States. You'll be assigned a Primary Doctor who you will need to see first to get a referral for any specialist visits. To use your Colombian health insurance, you must present your cédula to the doctor's office, hospital, lab, or other medical facilities.

EPS is not the only option. Colombia offers choices for expats. Expats that want better or faster service than what is offered by public health care services, can purchase a private health insurance policy from both local or international private insurers.

Compare quotes from different expat medical insurance companies within 60 Seconds

Nomadic FIRE has partnered with the most trusted international insurance brokers in the world. Trained to meet the specific needs of expats and digital nomads living or traveling abroad. They provide enhanced service responding in 24 hours or less to all of your questions.

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20 Things To Know About Healthcare In Colombia

1. Colombia's healthcare system quality is better than you think

Colombian healthcare is also considered to be the best in Central and South America. In fact, 26 of 61 of the region’s best hospitals are located in Colombia, according to the 2021 ranking in América Economía of the best Latin American hospitals. The Joint Commission International accreditation qualifies hospitals in Colombia's healthcare system as having some of the highest standards in the world.

By some metrics, Colombia is ranked higher in healthcare quality than the US. At 22nd, the World Health Organization ranks Colombia above the US (37th).

In other metrics, Colombia and the US are very close. Numbeo's recent 2022 Global Health care Index, which measures a country's healthcare system's waiting times, skill, modern equipment, and cost, ranked healthcare in Colombia at #38 and the United States at #33. Although the rankings are five spots apart, the US scored only 2% better.

However, keep in mind that the quality of hospitals and Colombian physicians drops considerably if you move outside of the major cities. This fact is important to consider if you have chronic medical issues or health concerns. In this case, you should strongly consider staying in Bogota, Medellin, or Cali for access to the best hospitals in Colombia.

BEST HOSPITALS IN COLOMBIA

Top 20 Best Hospitals In Colombia

RankHospitalScoreCity
1Fundación Valle Del Lili97.20Cali
2Fundación Santa Fe De Bogota96.27Bogotá
3Hospital Pablo Tobón Uribe93.82Medellín
4Fundación Hospitalaria San Vicente De Paul82.78Medellín
5Hospital Universitario San Ignacio82.00Bogotá
6Clínica Del Country81.65Bogotá
7Clínica De Marly S.A76.25Bogotá
8Administradora Clinica La Colina SAS76.15Bogotá
9Centro Médico Imbanaco De Cali S.A.73.30Cali
10Hospital General De Medellin Luz Castro De Gutierrez, E.S.E73.29Medellín
11Clínica De Occidente72.53Cali
12Empresa Social Del Estado Hospital Universitario De La Samaritana72.23Bogotá
13Servicios Especiales De Salud Hospital Universitario De Caldas72.21Manizales
14Clinica Medellin S.A72.21Medellín
15Fundación Hospital San Vicente De Paul Rionegro71.49Rionegro
16Clinica Los Nogales Sas70.00Bogotá
17Clinica Del Prado S.A.S69.97Medellín
18Clínica las Américas69.67Medellín
19Organizacion Clinica General Del Norte69.47Barranquilla
20E.S.E. Hospital Universitario Departamental De Nariño69.45Pasto
Source: The World's Best Hospitals Newsweek 2022

2. Healthcare in Colombia is a 3 tier system.

There are 3 types of health insurance in Colombia. One layer is EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud), the country's primary public health insurance plan. The second type of health insurance is called "medicina prepagada.” This insurance is for wealthier Colombians and expats unsatisfied with the benefits of the public plan.

Colombians and foreigners may pay extra for “medicina prepagada," or private health insurance that works on top of EPS plans. Keep in mind that the cost of this insurance is extra and varies according to your age, the plan you choose, and any pre-existing conditions.

There’s a third form of insurance, called SISBEN, but it isn’t available to foreigners. This insurance is intended for extremely vulnerable lower-income groups, providing homeless or very poor Colombians with medical care for free or at subsidized rates.

3. Colombia has a universal healthcare system

Colombia's system offers universal health coverage that's affordable and easy to use. The Colombian government subsidizes access to health care for 96% of the population. Compare this coverage to American healthcare, which only covers 28% of adults with public health coverage.

 INSIDER TIP : Public hospitals are required to treat expats, even if they don’t have proof of coverage. However, since you didn’t pay into the SGSSS fund, you will get charged the higher applicable rate for medical treatment.

4. Universal Healthcare in Colombia includes expats

Even expats are eligible for health insurance coverage through EPS. In fact, all temporary or permanent residents MUST enroll in the EPS healthcare system. For most expats, public health insurance in Colombia starts at $50 and ranges up to $200 per month, depending on monthly income.

To renew your visa in Colombia, you will be required to show that your purchase of EPS coverage extends long enough to cover your entire visa duration.

The public healthcare system will even treat you if you are a tourist with a medical emergency. Read that again: If you go to a public hospital and need urgent care, even with just a Colombian tourist visa, they will treat you. The cost isn't free, as you haven't paid into the public healthcare system, but healthcare in Colombia is very affordable. See section #12.

5. You need international health insurance to get a Colombian visa

As of July 2022, the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all expats applying for a visa to include proof of international health insurance. Depending on your age, citizenship, and required coverage, global health insurance costs roughly $75 to $300 per month USD.

  • The level of coverage required depends on your Colombian visa type:
    • Visitor Visa (V): $35,000 USD
    • Migrant Visa (M): $60,000 USD
    • Resident Visa (R) : $100,000 USD

Cigna Global

FINANCIAL RATING:

A

CUSTOMER ReVIEWS

Cigna is one of the best expat medical insurance companies in the world
  • Most popular expat medical insurance company
  • Customizable plans allowing you to pay for only the coverage you need, while offering flexible monthly rates 
  • Extensive global medical network of over 1.65 million hospitals and healthcare professionals in over 200 countries

Average Cost 

$$

Maximum Limits

$1,000,000 - Unlimited

Travel or International Medical

International Only

Ideal For- Older expats with health concerns or chronic conditions

IMG- International Medical Group

FINANCIAL RATING:

A

CUSTOMER ReVIEWS

IMG is consider the best international health insurance company's customer service
  • 25 international health insurance plans from travel medical (Patriot Plus) to international medical (IMG Global Medical)
  • Highest ranked customer satisfaction of any expat medical insurance company on the list
  • Insuring expats in 190+ countries with 800,000+ doctors and healthcare facilities worldwide

Average Cost 

$

Maximum Limits

$1,000,000 – $8,000,000

Travel or International Medical

BOTH

Ideal For- Younger expats looking for affordable overseas coverage with optional benefits

6. The rates you pay to access Colombia's public health systems are based solely on your income

example calculation of how much public healthcare in Colombia costs for expats working in Colombia

USD TO COP exchange rate as of this writing is 4,608 Pesos to US Dollar

The cost of the plans Colombian insurers provide you for EPS will be the same, and there is a mandatory list of services in place that every EPS plan must cover. This list is referred to as Plan Obligatorio de Salud (POS), or translated to Mandatory Health Plan. Remember that neither your age, gender, pre-existing conditions, or prior health history factor into your cost.

All employees, including self-employed, pensioners, freelancers, and local employees, contribute a percentage of their wages to the Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud [SGSSS]. The Colombian Ministry of Health uses the SGSSS to fund social services and provides health security to all citizens and legal residents.

Self-employed expats (such as freelancers or digital nomads) pay 5% of their net income for medical coverage.

The EPS premium for retirees is based on 12.5% of their declared social security or pension income.

If you are employed by a Colombian company, 4% of your monthly salary goes to a contributory health fund that grants you access Colombia's advanced healthcare system. Note unlike in the US, employees are not stuck with the company's choice of health provider.

See how much you would pay for Colombian health insurance using my EPS calculator.

7. Not all EPS providers provide the same level of healthcare service

screenshot of Sura, the most popular Colombian healthcare provider for expats

Sura America is the most popular EPS provider for expats

EPS health insurers act as administrative intermediaries between doctors and patients, similar to the PPO health insurance model in the United States. While EPS health insurers have no control over your insurance rates or what is covered under the public plan, they do control the doctors and hospitals you can access, the quality of customer service, the speed with which they approve treatments, and the efficiency with which they pay your claims.

Although these benefits sound one way on paper, in reality they may be different. Some EPS insurers are in precarious financial positions and have been withholding payments to their health care providers to ease a cash crunch. For example, the SaludCoop EPS was even liquidated completely to pay off its debts.

What’s a safe choice? Most expats choose SuraAmerican, mostly just called Sura, as they are the financially healthiest EPS insurance company, consistently ranked as offering the best EPS service. SURA has more than 4,600 physicians in its network and more than 400 medical centers and hospitals, offering a wide range of specialists and locations to receive care.

8. Public health services include vision and dental benefits, including:


  • Dental prophylaxis (cleaning).
  • Endodontics (root canal treatment).
  • Oral surgery (tooth extractions)
  • Cavity filling
  • Root canals
  • Total dental prosthesis (complete set of teeth for the dental arch).
  • X-rays

9. Public health services include insurance coverage for your spouse and children for free

Consider another possible surprise for expats: your spouse or permanent partner (i.e. same-sex marriage and civil unions are both legally recognized in Colombia) and your children (under 18) are covered by your public health insurance plan. If your children are dependents and are between 18 and 25 years old, they are also covered by your plan.

10. Healthcare coverage is harder for older expat retirees

Colombia is a retirement dream for many older expats, but you need to be prepared for how to handle your healthcare needs as you age. Private medical coverage, or “medicana prepagada”, starts charging older expats over the age of 60 an additional premium.

After 62 years old, most private health insurance will stop coverage. However, there are two exceptions to the age limit:

Also, keep in mind that there is no maximum age limit for Colombia's public healthcare plans.

11. Colombia's private health insurance system is better for foreign expats

Additional coverage comes at a cost, but it is still laughably low compared to American expats accustomed to US health insurance prices. Plans to cover a 49-year-old male start at $145 per month. (Remember that prices for “medicina prepagada”, or private coverage, depend on your age, coverage level, results of a medical exam, and previous medical history.)

Beyond affordability, private insurance gets you preferential treatment in a private hospital with modern facilities. It means less waiting time for appointments, private rooms when you need to stay at a hospital for treatment, and access to superior health standards. Private facilities have bilingual doctors with excellent education, and many complete a part of their training abroad.

Private coverage allows you to skip the primary care doctor’s appointment if all you need is a referral, allowing you to avoid notoriously long waits to secure an appointment on public healthcare plans. Further, you can contact specialists or get diagnostic testing done directly by making an appointment online or picking up the phone.

All of these benefits are amplified if you choose to settle in particular areas of Colombia. In fact, it's common for larger hospitals in major cities (i.e. Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena) to have special departments with multilingual staff that deal specifically with foreigners.

There is little surprise that the US is Colombia's biggest medical tourist customer. This emerging reputation for quality has led to more and more 5-star health clinics popping up to specialize in serving the foreign market.

12. The Cost of Health Services In Colombia are very affordable

The Colombian Ministry of Health works to keep prices low for everyone. Colombians pay less out-of-pocket costs (14%) for healthcare than most countries. This number is achieved in part by a substantial investment of government expenditures on health care. Nearly 20% of Colombian government spending funds the basic health insurance system for its citizens (That’s nearly 8% of GDP).

Colombia has the lowest cost for prescription drugs in Latin America. As a rule of thumb, expect prices in Colombia to be roughly 1/3 the cost of the United States. More specifically, EPS co-pays are roughly $5 for most expats; expat's prepagada co-pays are roughly $10 for most private plans; and many medications can be bought over-the-counter for very low prices.

Example: the drug Lipitor (used in the treatment of lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood) costs $43.45 in Colombia vs $641.40 at Walmart in the United States.

What about if you need health care at your home but are concerned about the cost? Not only do some healthcare plans in Colombia offer house-call service with a team of doctors and dentists that travel to your home for treatment, 24 hours per day, 365-days a year, but doctors provide this service for the same co-pay fee as a regular physician's visit.

doctor in Colombia doing a house call with a retired expat

Many Colombian doctors still do house calls

13. Pharmacies in Colombia can be your first stop for minor health issues

Sometimes you don’t even need to see medical staff for minor health issues. Pharmacists in Colombia have additional training and knowledge to diagnose symptoms and provide basic medical advice. How? First, pharmacists in Colombia are required to have a college degree or equivalent experience. Pharmacy staff is required to complete continuing education related to health education and patient counseling within their regular activities to help obtain the best health outcomes for patients.

Consider this: A pharmacist can give you injections and vaccines. They’ll shoot you up in the backroom (see section 18 about cultural differences about shots). No trip to the doctor is needed.

Pharmacists in Colombia provide a level of care higher than a typical drugstore in the USA

Many prescription drugs are available over the counter without needing to see a doctor for a prescription first. You should know that some drugs have different names in different parts of the world. For instance, Tylenol is the brand name for acetaminophen in the US, but the same drug is called paracetamol nearly everywhere else in the world. Google your drug's name to get the translation in Spanish. An added bonus? Drugs are SUPER CHEAP in comparison to the US and Europe (see section 12 above)

Access is another huge benefit to pharmacies in Colombia. Most are open seven days a week. Too sick to move? Most pharmacies also deliver right to your home. Simply message or call the pharmacy, and they’ll arrive at your door. It’s like Uber Eats for prescription drugs. In sum, pharmacies can take care of your minor illness, quickly and easily. That means no long wait times or hard-to-schedule appointments.

14. The best-equipped hospital is in Cali

Given that Bogota is the capital city and Medellin is the retirement hotspot, it's surprising that Cali has the top-ranked Colombian healthcare facility, according to Global Health Intelligence. FUNDACIÓN VALLE DEL LILI- (Valle del Lili Foundation University Hospital) grabbed a Top 5 hospital ranking in 8 separate categories. Out of these 8 categories, the hospital has the #1 ranking in the following categories: Primary Diagnostics, Cancer Treatment, Advanced Diagnostic Imaging, and High-Risk Patients

The top ranked hospital in Colombia is Valle del Lili Foundation in Cali, Colombia. Image Source

15. What it's like getting medical treatment in Colombia

Quality of Healthcare & Equipment

From a patient standpoint, healthcare delivery is often based on 3 metrics: accessibility, affordability and affability. Across the board, Medellin hits a homerun. It is relatively easy to get an appointment, it is incredibly affordable, and it is usually a pleasant experience.

The equipment, machinery, tools, etc. are often what we would consider to be 2nd or 3rd generation in the USA. Do not be scared or put-off by this as I do not see this as negative. Everything is always clean, meticulously maintained and always functional.

J. Stevens-United States Registered Nurse 

Quality of Healthcare & Equipment

If you have a cedula, you can get EPS [Public Healthcare] for around 130,000 pesos [$27 USD] / per month... I am 74 and just had a triple bypass. I paid nothing and live in Estrato 4. Co-pays are 3700 pesos [$0.77 cents USD].

T. Tysver- US Expat In Colombia

16. Yellow and dengue fever in Colombia

Yellow fever and other mosquito -borne diseases are a public health concern in Colombia

Waterborne diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are still a major public health concern in Colombia because of many factors, including its high epidemic potential, the fact that the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes is highly prevalent in Colombia, and there is not yet an effective treatment if you do catch it.

In fact, Colombia is the first place I have ever needed to show my Yellow vaccine card. If I didn't have my yellow card, I would not have been able to visit the gorgeous beaches in Tayrona National Park.

if you are traveling from Brazil or specific countries in Africa, the CDC recommends yellow fever vaccine shots for anyone traveling to Colombia, unless you only plan on visiting Bogotá, Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, or Medellín. The CDC only has a "Generally not recommended" warning for Americans staying in Colombia's major cities.

You can check the latest updates for Colombia on the CDC website.

17. Medical tourism and plastic surgery in Colombia

Culturally, Colombian women are taught to value their looks at a young age. In fact, especially among lower to middle-income classes, young women are pressured to use their looks as means of catching wealthy men and climbing the socioeconomic ladder to financial success. 

366,312 cosmetic operations took place in Colombia are for women under 17 years old. Image Source

Cosmetic surgery is not only popular among Colombians – many foreigners also the affordable quality of results here. As a result, cosmetic surgery is a growing industry, with more and more people opting to have procedures done in Colombia. In fact, Cosmetic surgery represents the largest segment of the medical tourism market, with 60% of medical travelers seeking aesthetic surgeries or treatments.

More than 75,500 foreigners traveled to cities such as Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín in 2016 to undergo cosmetic procedures, accounting for 15 percent of the total number of surgeries carried out that year. Americans make up a large percentage of patients who undergo cosmetic procedures in Colombia: one study showed 66% of the visitors to a plastic surgery clinic in Cartagena were from the United States.

One reason for this dominance in the medical tourism market is that you can expect to pay less for cosmetic surgery than in other countries. Another reason is choice: There are a number of cosmetic surgery clinics throughout the country, making it easy for tourists to find one that suits their needs. Patients can be assured that they will receive world-class treatment no matter where they choose to go for plastic surgery. Finally, there are a number of affordable cosmetic surgery clinics throughout the country, which makes it easy for people on a budget to get quality treatment without breaking the bank. Consider this liposuction costs $4,000 to $8,000 in Miami, but can be done for as little as $800 at Colombian clinics.

It is no surprise that a survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) found that over 366,312 cosmetic operations took place in Colombia in 2020. Colombia ranks No. 3 globally in terms of number of plastic surgeries per capita in a 2020 study, and in 2015, Colombia ranked second, just after South Korea.

18. Cultural differences in Colombian healthcare

Because Colombia offers universal public healthcare, doctors are inclined to use more testing and diagnostic scans than in the US. Increased attentiveness to detection allows for a more efficient diagnosis of the root cause of medical conditions. Tests and medicines are more likely to be recommended multiple times than in other countries, due to the attentiveness of doctors toward patients' diagnoses.

This feature of Colombian healthcare is particularly noteworthy as unnecessary examinations, multiple tests, and longer treatments using strong prescription drugs all result in higher medical bills.

healthcare in Colombia has culture differences including getting shots in the butt


There are other cultural differences in Colombian health care. For one, shots are given in the bum. Outside of Colombia, to my best recollection, every vaccine or shot I have ever received was given in my shoulder. But for reasons unknown to me, Colombian doctors go for the booty. Maybe it is because of plastic surgery butt lifts Colombians get — and doctors just want a peek.

 INSIDER TIP : Appointment times don't matter much- Punctuality when living in South America takes some getting used to. I was used to a friend being late meeting up for dinner, but it was a culture shock to have doctors and lawyers, people I pay money to, stroll in 30 minutes to an hour late.

Show up 15 minutes early, in case the doctor is running ahead of time, but be mentally prepared to not get frustrated if they are 30 minutes late.

19. All public healthcare in Colombia starts with your IPS

Your IPS (“Prestadoras de Servicios de Salud”, or “health center” in English) is assigned to you by your EPS based on your address.

Your IPS is your primary medical provider and where general practitioners provide most of the initial medical treatments such as:

  • General medical consultation
  • Clinical laboratory tests
  • X-rays and Ultrasound
  • Some minor surgical procedures.
  • Urgent care
  • Dentistry
  • Additionally, your ISP is where you must initially go for a referral if you want access to specialists.

 INSIDER TIP : Choose Your EPS based on your desired ISP- Not all ISPs have the same quality of care and service. But you don't get a choice among providers.Your ESP insurer assigns you an ISP closest to your home. It may make sense to narrow down your choice of EPS provider based on the quality of the IPS nearest your home address.

20. The healthcare system in Colombia is in a bit of flux

The problem of inequality Colombian healthcare led to the election of leftist president Gustavo Petro. Image Source

In the last 40 years, healthcare in Colombia has gone through a period of tremendous growth and improvement. In 1991, the healthcare system reformation resulted in a change to the national constitution guaranteeing—among other things—that health is a basic right of all Colombians (see Law 100). Since then, the percentage of the country's population with health care soared: from 25% in 1992 to 85% by 2008, and now in 2022 to an enviable 96% universal coverage.

Further, healthcare in Colombia has made significant regulatory progress, which has improved service quality and response times to world-class standards. In fact, Colombia is now a top medical tourist destination, and it consistently ranks as a leader in healthcare quality in Latin America.

Not everything about the healthcare system is improving, however. Due to a number of factors, including the rising cost of delivering health care; widespread insurance fraud; the poor financial health of EPS insurance companies; mismanagement of public hospitals; and allegations of potential bribery of government officials, the system has taken a hit in recent years.

Like many countries, Colombia's healthcare system was slammed during the pandemic. However, Colombia experienced a triple whammy causing it to be stretched thin even now. In addition to the pandemic, Colombia faces the systemic challenges referenced in the above paragraph and the country has seen an influx of refugees fleeing Venezuela over the last several years.

In fact, Colombia was one of the only countries offering safe haven to refugees fleeing the economic collapse of Venezuela. (As it relates to immigration more broadly, Colombia provides visas, access to education, housing, and healthcare programs to an estimated 5.5 million refugees)

These factors have contributed to public hospitals and insurance companies going bankrupt in recent years, and recent reports suggest that Colombia's healthcare system has been operating at a loss of 11 million COP  (roughly $2.4 million USD) over the last two years.

While wealthier Colombians living in major cities with top-ranked hospitals (and often owning supplemental private insurance), still enjoy quality healthcare, the public healthcare system provides insufficient access to high-quality healthcare for rural, poor or indigenous Colombians.

The inequalities in health care quality can be extreme. While 96% of the population is covered by the country's public health plan, estimates suggest an additional 2.3 to 2.7 million Colombians are currently without access to healthcare. The quality of health care itself also varies widely depending on geography and demographics.

Rural healthcare quality

  • Rural healthcare in Colombia is not always up to par with that found in more developed countries
  • As a result, expats living in the countryside can expect to have worse experiences with both medical professionals and hospitals outside of major cities

Poor with the inability to pay

Lack of support for Indigenous people

  • One study showed that a group of indigenous people suffered a childhood mortality rate 6 times the national average.

The problem of inequality in healthcare is so big that it factored into a recent presidential election, with the dissatisfaction of the underrepresented helping to fuel the election of the current left-wing president Gustavo Petro.

Key Takeaway: Healthcare System In Colombia

The healthcare system in Colombia scores high on a number of metrics. It’s the best in South America, and it’s considered better than the US and Canada. Even pharmacists are trained to give advice on medication, and they are even empowered and qualified to administer shots right in the pharmacy.

Health care is also affordable in Colombia, with the starting cost for a 49-year-old male at $145. Though inexpensive, it often comes with benefits like dental and vision, and it covers a spouse and children at no extra charge.

The system isn’t perfect. Expats considering Colombia should know that care in rural areas pales in comparison to cities, and overcrowded facilities and long wait times to schedule appointments must often be endured. Make no mistake, though. If you are informed enough about how to access health care by navigating the public and private system, you’ll see why Colombia is emerging as a destination for medical tourism and why many expats have chosen Colombia for its health care system.

NEXT STEPS

Other helpful resources on insurance for expats

A Comprehensive Guide To Philippines Health Insurance For Expats
24 Facts About Healthcare In The Philippines Every Expat Must Know
How To Get Health Insurance In Colombia As A Foreigner

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FAQs: Colombian Health Care System

Is healthcare in Colombia free?

Healthcare in Colombia is free for only its poorest citizens. The government subsidizes nearly 84% of Colombia's health expenditures. The EPS public health insurance system is available to all residents at a low cost, dependent on income.Most expats pay between $75 to $150 per month for EPS cover.

What type of healthcare system does Colombia have?

Colombia has an American-style “mixed-market” health care system, with both public and private Colombian health insurers. Both public and private hospitals have a high standard of care, but there are differences in access.

Public healthcare is low-cost (and sometimes free) mandatory insurance that all citizens and residents pay for. While the quality of healthcare is still good, the larger hospitals are subject to overcrowding and long waiting times for appointments

Private insurance comes with additional costs but offers a more efficient delivery of health care. Private hospitals are more upscale facilities and you getdirect access to English-speaking specialists without a referral.

How much does health care cost in Colombia cost for retirees?

Retirees with valid visas are eligible for the EPS public health insurance system for a low monthly cost based on income. For expat retirees making $1,500, EPS starts at $75 per month. That includes health care emergencies, access to excellent hospitals, payments for lab tests, and dental coverage.

EPS public health insurance system is available to all foreign residents at a low cost, dependent on income. For most expat retirees making $1,500 per month, EPS starts at $75 per month. That includes health care emergencies, access to excellent hospitals, payments for lab tests, and dental coverage.


About the author

Hi, That's me. I'm Marco Sison. I am a survivor of the corporate rat race. I started Nomad FIRE to show you an alternative to the stress and grind of 70-hour weeks to pay off a mortgage, student loans, and countless bills. After getting laid off in 2015, I said screw it all and retired early at 41 years old. I have traveled the last eight years to over 50 countries to show you the best ways to save, invest, and live in amazing countries for 70% less cost than the US. I have been featured in: US News & World Reports, HuffPost, MSN Money, USA Today, ABC Network, Yahoo Finance, the iTunes documentary Seeking FIRE, and the Amazon Best-Seller, Abroad: Expats That Thrive. [view press...]

  • Marco…..I have read the following part of your healthcare webpage *see below…I and 77 years old and want to reach COOMEVA about that Tarifa Dorada plan. But there is no way to get through to them on their website. Can you please advise how to reach them?? I need an updated/accurate email address.

    10. Healthcare coverage is harder for older expat retirees
    Colombia is a retirement dream for many older expats, but you need to be prepared for how to handle your healthcare needs as you age. Private medical coverage, or “medicana prepagada”, starts charging older expats over the age of 60 an additional premium.

    After 62 years old, most private health insurance will stop coverage. However, there are two exceptions to the age limit:

    Sura’s Plan 60 plus provides coverage until you reach 79
    Coomeva’s Tarifa Dorada Plan is one private medical insurance company that will continue to provide coverage until you are 100 years old
    Also, keep in mind that there is no maximum age limit for Colombia’s public healthcare plans.

  • If i am only visiting for 2-3 months, I don’t qualify for insurance right. What are the costs of medical care out of pocket in Colombia? It’s in my list for medical tourism, as I don’t have insurance in the US.

    • Hi Lizzie, you wouldn’t qualify for EPS (Colombian public insurance) and expat insurance usually requires a one year commitment. The excellent news is Colombia’s medical treatments are much cheaper than in the United States, even if you pay out of pocket. Colombia is a medical tourism hotspot, especially if you are considering cosmetic surgery.

  • Is age (62) or having a preexisting condition a reason to be excluded from the Colombian healthcare system? Many thanks.

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