Private healthcare in Costa Rica

Start with the appointment you need

Tell the clinic whether you want a first assessment, a second opinion, routine follow-up or a procedure consultation. Ask which professional will see you, the appointment location, the language available and what records to bring. A hospital brand alone does not tell you which clinician is responsible for your care.

Agree on the scope and payment

• Request the consultation fee and whether follow-up is included.
• Ask whether tests, imaging, facility fees and professional fees are billed separately.
• Confirm whether you pay the provider directly or need insurer authorization.
• Ask for an itemized receipt and the records your insurer requires.

Keep the next step connected

Before you leave the appointment, ask how you receive results, who explains them and how to arrange review. If you also use CCSS services, ask both teams how records and recommendations should be shared; a private appointment does not automatically authorize a public service.

For planned care, write down the clinician’s recommendation, open questions and the next appointment. Bring unresolved clinical questions back to the treating professional.

Private care while visiting

Up-front payment may be required. Confirm the payment process before a planned appointment; insurance coverage and a provider’s acceptance of that insurance are separate questions. U.S. State Department: Costa Rica health information.

Continue your Costa Rica planning

• Costa Rica healthcare costs
• Finding doctors in Costa Rica