Medicare in Costa Rica

Original Medicare generally does not cover care abroad

Medicare generally does not pay for healthcare outside the United States, apart from limited exceptions. Do not budget for routine Costa Rica care on the assumption that Medicare will reimburse it. Medicare Part D does not cover prescriptions purchased outside the United States. Official Medicare foreign-travel coverage guidance.

Check additional coverage separately

Some Medigap policies offer foreign-travel emergency benefits. Ask the insurer whether your particular policy covers your destination, trip length and circumstances. Confirm any Medicare Advantage travel benefits directly with the plan. Travel emergency coverage should not be treated as a promise of routine resident healthcare coverage.

Questions to put to your plan

• Does my policy cover this planned service in Costa Rica, or only emergencies?
• Are there limits tied to trip length, residence, age or prior conditions?
• Must I pay first and submit a claim, and what documents are required?
• Who authorizes emergency treatment or medical evacuation?
• What should I check before changing enrollment while living abroad?

Plan care in both countries

If you expect to return to the United States for some care, discuss how to share records and maintain follow-up. Obtain written answers from Medicare or the insurer before making coverage or enrollment decisions. Green Healthcare can help organize questions and appointments; the plan determines benefits.

Continue your Costa Rica planning

• Health insurance in Costa Rica
• Healthcare for retirees in Costa Rica