For U.S. citizens, residents and visitors

Healthcare in Costa Rica for Americans.

The appropriate route depends on whether you live in Costa Rica, your residency and CCSS eligibility, your insurance, urgency and whether the care is routine, specialist-led or planned medical travel.

Start with your situation.

I live in Costa Rica

Eligible residents may use applicable CCSS services and can also choose private care. Medicina Mixta rules and benefits require active eligibility verification.

I am visiting

Visitors commonly use private providers and should confirm insurance, payment, records, prescriptions and follow-up before care.

I am traveling for treatment

Request a written clinical proposal, provider information, travel timeline, recovery plan and complication pathway before booking.

Documents and questions to prepare.

  • Medication list, allergies, diagnoses and relevant records
  • Passport identification and insurance or CCSS information when applicable
  • Preferred language and emergency contacts
  • How prescriptions and records will transfer between countries
  • Who coordinates after-hours needs and follow-up

For official country information, consult the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica and the relevant Costa Rican authorities.

Medical travel guide · Medicina Mixta information · How care coordination works

Can an American automatically use CCSS services?

No. Access and coverage depend on legal status, enrollment, eligibility and applicable CCSS rules. Confirm your individual status directly.

Does Green Healthcare provide medical treatment?

No. Green Healthcare coordinates care and information. Independent licensed professionals and facilities provide clinical services.