Healthcare in Costa Rica

Explore how healthcare in Costa Rica offers quality, affordability, and access on the Caribbean coast.

Published

Punta Uva Realty
Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Healthcare in Costa Rica offers important aspects such as a public healthcare system and the availability of quality private medical care. However, the publication points out the long waiting times in public medicine.

Costa Rica has built a strong international reputation for its healthcare system, and one of the standout features is its access to JCI-accredited hospitals—a gold standard for quality in global healthcare. JCI (Joint Commission International) approval signifies that a hospital meets rigorous international standards for patient care, safety, and facility management.

🩺 General Healthcare in Costa Rica

🇨🇷 Public Healthcare – “La Caja” (CCSS)

Costa Rica’s public healthcare is managed by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, widely known as “La Caja.” It is the backbone of the country’s universal healthcare system, offering full medical coverage to citizens and legal residents. Once enrolled, individuals have access to:

  • Primary care physicians

  • Medical specialists

  • Laboratory tests, diagnostic imaging, and surgical procedures

  • Prescription medications

These services are funded through an affordable monthly contribution based on your income. This structure makes healthcare widely accessible without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

🏨 Private Healthcare System

In parallel with the public system, Costa Rica features a well-developed network of private hospitals and clinics. These institutions are known for their speed, high-quality care, and English-speaking professionals. Private healthcare offers:

  • Significantly lower costs compared to the U.S. or Europe

  • Short wait times and same-day appointment availability

  • Great popularity among expats, long-term visitors, and medical tourists

You can choose to pay out-of-pocket—often at surprisingly affordable rates—or use international private insurance. The private system ensures comfort, quick service, and a high level of professionalism.

Why Costa Rica’s Healthcare System Stands Out

  • Significant public investment in education results in a highly trained healthcare workforce

  • A national focus on preventive care helps reduce serious illness and medical costs

  • Costa Rican culture places a strong emphasis on wellness and quality of life

  • The government actively supports both public and private medical sectors

Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or relocating permanently, Costa Rica offers a healthcare system that is welcoming, professional, and efficient. Many expats highlight it as one of the top advantages of moving to Costa Rica.

🏝 Healthcare on the Caribbean Coast – Puerto Viejo Area

On Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean coast, including Puerto Viejo, both residents and visitors benefit from access to public and private medical services.

The main public clinic is located in Hone Creek, offering services under the Caja system, such as:

  • General practitioners

  • Emergency care

  • Referrals to specialists

For advanced care and hospitalization, the nearest large public hospital is in Limón, approximately an hour from Puerto Viejo.

From Cahuita to Puerto Viejo, there are several private clinics, dental offices, and pharmacies. Medical services in this region are:

  • Conveniently located within communities

  • More affordable than in the United States

  • Frequently staffed by English-speaking professionals

This easy access to healthcare—combined with reasonable pricing—makes the Caribbean coast an ideal destination for both relocation and extended vacations.

🌿 Costa Rica isn’t just a move—it’s a lifestyle.

Contact us to find your dream home for sale Costa Rica in the jungle, with trusted guidance every step of the way.

Recommended from Punta Uva Realty

Retirement in Costa Rica – #3 Retirement Destination in 2025
Your source for expert insights on real estate, retirement, and life on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
Why Expats Choose Costa Rica for Living and Investing
Ranked Among the World’s Friendliest Countries
What’s Happening in Manzanillo from Punta Uva to the Wildlife Refuge
And Why We Don’t Sell Property There
Why You Can’t Buy Beachfront Property on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast (For Now)
Learn why all beachfront properties are currently off-limits for purchase