It’s interesting… the cultural difference between the USA and Mexico when it comes to healthcare. Canada as well, actually. Because both Mexico & Canada have socialized medicine. So going to the Doctor is easy and usually without cost. I’m not going to get into how difficult it is to get an appointment with a Doctor in either country. That goes beyond my knowledge. The USA has private healthcare, which we all know is quite expensive.

Since moving to Mexico in August 2021, I have been sick a few times. I do not have insurance in Mexico or the USA. I did look into getting a medical insurance policy when I first moved here, but unlike the USA, Mexico does have a pre-existing condition limitation. And with my medical history, it just wasn’t worth it. I pay cash whenever I need to see a Doctor or get an x-ray or have tests done. I see a private Doctor in a hospital. Also, the large majority of pharmacies in Mexico have a Doctor’s office attached. These Doctors work for the pharmacy and are available at no cost to the patient. They just ask for a “tip.” Imagine that! It’s like the “Minute Clinic” at CVS in the USA. CVS is a large, national drug store which sells medication and groceries, and in many cases beer and liquor as well.

But in Mexico, most pharmacies are just that. A pharmacy. Most drugs (except antibiotics and narcotics) do not require a prescription. My daily meds (ie: high blood pressure) I am able to buy without a prescription. So although they are “behind the counter” at the pharmacy, anyone can buy them. In addition, there are many “over the counter” meds that we are accustomed to finding in the USA. The difference, is that the American brands (ie; Theraflu, DayQuill, NyQuill) aren’t readily available here. And if you can find them, they are quite expensive.

So, I’ve had to learn what a Dayquill equivalent is, for example. Thankfully, Pepto Bismol is sold here and found easily. But back to the title of this Blog. Anytime I’ve been sick, from falling, a stomach flu or a cold, the first question from family and friends is, did you go see a Doctor? And generally my answer is no. In the USA, we do not go to the Doctor for a simple cold or a sprained ankle. Sure, we might need an x-ray to see if it’s broken. And if we have insurance it’s covered, except (usually) for a small co-pay. If we don’t have insurance, we rarely visit a Doctor due to the cost. It depends on the situation, of course.

I have family in Mexico that are Doctors, and they have helped on occasion with a referral or even sending me the name of a medication that can help my condition. I’ve been to the Doctor’s offices in the local pharmacies and have found them to be professional and helpful. I’ve also found two hospitals here in the Puerto Vallarta area that are accustomed to seeing ex-pats and have English speaking doctors. They are modern, clean and very nice hospitals. I might have to wait a while to be seen if a real medical emergency comes in. But it’s worked for me so far.

I’m currently sick with a cold, I think. Scratchy throat, terrible cough and a bit of body aches. It’s been two days since I started feeling poorly. And I have some over the counter meds here at home which I am taking. I do not plan on visiting the doctor, at least not at this point. We will see how I feel in the next day or so.

And if I do go see a Doctor, it will probably be the one at the Supermarket 5 minutes from my house that has a nice pharmacy and Doctor’s office. So, there you have it. Interesting, huh?

Recently, I received mail here at my apartment. Shocking really. As snail mail is not reliable here and rarely used by anyone. Well, the US Social Security Administration (SSA) sent me a letter to advise me that I qualify for Medicare on my birthday this July! Yes, yes, I know. Medicare is a federal insurance program for people over 65. Medicare does not cover health costs outside of the country. So I will look into it as there may come a time where I feel that US based medical care is best for any future condition I might have. Lots to consider.

So there you have it. I believe my answer to “have you gone to see a Doctor” will remain a negative one… for now. I will always look into professional healthcare based on my condition and my situation. Othwerwise, I will self-medicate, rest and drink plenty of fluids.

“Good health and good sense are two of life’s greatest blessings.” – Pubilius Syrus