Medical Information and Assistance

Medical Insurance

The U.S. Embassy recommends that you review your health insurance policy before you travel.

In some places, particularly at resorts, medical costs can be as high or higher than in the United States. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations. If your insurance policy does not cover you in Guatemala, it is strongly recommended that you purchase a policy that does. Short-term health insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel are available.

Medical facilities in Guatemala differ from those in the United States. Guatemala City has excellent health facilities. Some small towns may have few or no medical facilities. For these reasons, in addition to medical insurance that you can use in Guatemala, consider obtaining insurance or joining a medical assistance program to cover the very high cost of medical evacuation in the event of an accident or serious illness. As part of the coverage, these programs usually offer emergency consultation by telephone. They may refer you to the nearest hospital or call for help on your behalf; they may translate your instructions to a health care worker on the scene. The cost of medical evacuation coverage is minimal for a trip of 30 days. Without this insurance, medical evacuation can cost thousands of dollars.

When making decisions regarding health insurance, consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that medical air evacuation to the U.S. may cost over $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expense that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

If you become seriously ill, the Embassy can assist in finding a doctor and in notifying your family and friends about your condition.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs are listed in the Department of State publication, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, accessible at the Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1185.html.

Neither the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City nor the U.S. government can pay to have you medically evacuated to the United States.