Medical Tourism in Mexico
Seeking affordable healthcare abroad? Medical tourism in Mexico can save you up to 80%! No more worries about the incredibly expensive US healthcare system.[1] Read this article for pricing, top destinations, best healthcare providers, and more.
Testimonial: Affordable Medical Tourism in Mexico
Mexico boasts one of the strongest economies in Latin America. The healthcare professionals here have the knowledge, education, and facilities required to deliver top-quality services.[2]
Don't just take our word for it—check out these patient testimonials for extra reassurance.
Medical Tourism Mexico Reviews
Dental Work in Mexico
Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
Cosmetic Surgery in Mexico
Weigh Loss Surgery in Mexico
Did you know?
Over 90% of California border crossers for medical services found healthcare in Mexico to be of "same or better quality" than in the US.[3]
Wondering about the affordability of treatments? Scroll down and find out how much medical treatment costs in Mexico.
Cost of Medical Procedures in Mexico
You can really benefit from the affordable healthcare in Mexico. On average, medical treatments here can be up to 80% cheaper than in the US. Whether you need dental work or bariatric surgery, you'll find more budget-friendly options in Mexico.
Plus, the quality of medical services in Mexico is just as good as in the US.[4] Want to know the medical tourism Mexico prices for your desired treatment? Take a look at the table below!
| Treatments | US | Mexico | |
| Dental Procedures | |||
| Titanium implant with abutment | $5,000 | $650 | |
| Porcelain veneer* | $2,500 | $250 | |
| Porcelain crown | $1,800 | $300 | |
| Full denture** | $2,000 | $450 | |
| Bariatric Surgery | |||
| Gastric sleeve | $21,000 | $4,295 | |
| Gastric bypass | $23,000 | $5,495 | |
| Lap Band | $18,000 | $4,000 | |
| Cosmetic Procedures | |||
| Liposuction | $9,500 | $4,000 | |
| Tummy-tuck | $15,000 | $5,000 | |
| Breast Augmentation | $12,000 | $3,500 | |
| Facelift | $15,000 | $6,000 | |
| Orthopedic Surgery | |||
| Total knee replacement^ | $30,000 | $7,000 | |
| Total hip replacement^ | $44,000 | $9,000 | |
| ACL reconstruction*** | $35,000 | $4,500 | |
| *per unit, ** per jaw, ^ unilateral, ***resurfacing | |||
*Medical tourism Mexico prices are case-dependent and subject to change.
The short answer is - it depends on your specific treatment.
Let's explore the Mexican costs for consultations and surgeries to get a general idea.
General Doctor’s Consultation
A doctor’s consultation in Mexico costs 50-400 MXN (about 2.50 - 22 USD).
Specialist Consultation
Seeing a specialist like a cardiologist or gynecologist in Mexico typically costs 800-1,000 MXN per visit without insurance. That’s approximately USD 40 to 50.
Surgeries
- Surgical procedures in Mexico are also more affordable than in the US.
- A hip replacement in Mexico costs about USD 12,500, whereas in the US, it can reach USD 40,000 without insurance.
Thus, many medical consultations and procedures in Mexico are only a fraction of the cost compared to the US.
Even medications in Mexico are significantly cheaper.
Many that require prescriptions in the US are available over the counter in Mexico.
Source: Mexico Relocation Guide[5]
When it comes to healthcare in Mexico for tourists, they offer all-inclusive packages.
This means that medical tourists in Mexico can have their treatment and enjoy a nice holiday without breaking the bank.
Take a look at what our partner healthcare providers include in these packages!
Mexico Medical Tourism Packages
The cost of medical treatment in Mexico is inclusive of:
- Consultation & check-ups
- Necessary tests
- Hospital & surgeon’s fee
- Anesthesia, medications
- Hotel stay for special tariffs
- Ground transfer & more
Now that you are familiar with Mexico's medical costs, let’s move on to the savings.
How Much to Save With Medical Treatment in Mexico 2023?
- Bariatric Cost Savings in Mexico: Weight loss surgery in Mexico can offer up to 79% savings for Americans. In the US only 10% of insurance covers bariatric procedures.[6]
- Orthopedic Cost Savings in Mexico: Orthopedics is a top specialty in medical tourism.[7] Opting for orthopedic surgery in Mexico can save Americans up to 87%.
- Dental Cost Savings in Mexico: Dental work in Mexico costs about one-third of the US prices. The country is known for its top-notch dental care.[8]
- Cosmetic Cost Savings in Mexico: Cosmetic surgeries are costly and often not covered by insurance.[9] With Mexico cosmetic surgery, patients can save 58-70%.
Savings on Medical Tourism in Mexico
Curious about why medical costs are lower in Mexico, here is the answer.
Why Is Healthcare Cheaper in Mexico?
The promise of high quality at nearly one-third the price might seem confusing. How is it that even the same brand's implants cost less in Mexico than in the US?
While currency exchange rates make the prices appear cheaper, other factors contribute to their affordability.
These lower costs are rooted in the medical culture of the country. Some of the driving factors include:
Earnings in Mexico are lower across the entire spectrum of jobs, including medical professionals.[10]
Mexico doctors carry no student loan debt due to government subsidies.[11] It reduces the chance of overcharging their service.
Mexican doctors don’t purchase expensive medical malpractice insurance.[12] It is often used in the US to protect doctors against lawsuits.
Most prescription drugs in Mexico are 50-70% less than in the US.[13] Little regulation by the govt in the US affects the price of medicines sold there.
Though medical care for US citizens in Mexico is affordable, some use health insurance for extra savings.
Interested in using insurance for medical treatment in Mexico? Discover more in the next section.
Does Mexico Accept US Health Insurance?
MTC network hospitals accept US medical or dental insurance in Mexico. They assist patients with insurance paperwork.
It, in turn, helps the patient to make an insurance claim. However, knowing the overseas insurance coverage terms is essential:[14]
- The US Government does not pay for medical care in Mexico.
- Private US insurance companies may settle for reimbursement.
- Mexican hospitals generally require an up-front payment.
- Rarely Medicare covers non-emergency inpatient care in hospitals near the US-Mexico border.
Knowing the terms of cover can help you more. Do check the insurance coverage areas with your insurance provider.
Did you know?
Mexico is home to over 1.6 million Americans and 500,000 Canadians, boasting the highest number of US expats worldwide.[15]
But why do people go to Mexico for medical treatment? Find out below.
Top Reasons to Choose Mexico for Medical Travel
Mexico offers a great vacation with its colors and beaches! But, when it comes to medical work, one may want to research more.
Below is a list of some driving factors for medical tourism in Mexico:
Affordable Medical Services
The cost of medical services in Mexico is 70 to 80% less than in the US.
The savings for various procedures are:
- Dental: 80%
- Bariatric: 75%
- Orthopedic & cosmetic: 70%
- Prescription drugs: 50-70%
With lower healthcare costs, Mexico is the world's second-best retirement spot.[16]
Best Healthcare
- Most Mexican cities have at least one world-class hospital[17]
- State-of-the-art facilities comparable to the US hospitals
- Certified & highly experienced doctors with excellent patient safety records
- No waiting times and lesser treatment duration
Mexico ranks among the world's top 5 countries for healthcare quality.[18]
Travel Convenience
- Proximity to the US and Canada
- Visa-free tourism for 70+ countries, including the US & Canada[19]
- Direct flights from major US, Canadian & European cities
Urban Comforts
Mexico offers many of the First World conveniences like:[20]
- Good highways, plenty of airports
- Reliable telecom services
- Fast and stable internet connections
Popular Wellness & Tourist Destination
- The 2nd most visited tourist destination in the world in 2023[21]
- A diverse landscape of sunny deserts, snow-covered mountains, and steamy, tropical rainforests.[22]
- The serene climate of Mexico is perfect for patients on the path to recovery.[23]
Mexico is the fifth most megadiverse place in the world. It is home to 12% of Earth’s known species.[24]
Watch this video for insights into medical tourism in Mexico
Mexico Medical Tourism
Guide to Medical Tourism in Mexico
Considering a medical trip to Mexico and unsure about where to go or find reliable healthcare? Your search ends here!
Scroll down to find all the information you need for safe and successful medical treatment in Mexico.
Top Procedures for Medical Tourism in Mexico
Mexico provides top-notch healthcare services for dental, bariatric, cosmetic, and orthopedic surgeries.
The table below shows some of the sought-after treatments by medical tourists in Mexico.
| Dental | Bariatric | Orthopedic | Cosmetic |
| Dental implants | Gastric sleeve | Total knee replacement | Tummy tuck |
| All on 4 | Gastric bypass | Total hip replacement | Liposuction |
| Full mouth restoration | Robotic gastric sleeve | Robotic knee replacement | Breast augmentation |
| Dental crowns & bridges | Robotic gastric bypass | Knee arthroscopy | Breast lift |
| Dental braces | Mini gastric bypass | Meniscus repair | BBL |
| Dental veneers | Lap band | ACL repair | Mommy makeover |
| Dentures | Gastric balloon | ACL reconstruction | Facelift |
| Root canal | Duodenal Switch | PCL reconstruction | Nose job |
| Teeth whitening | BariClip surgery | Shoulder replacement | Eyelift |
| Extraction | Revision surgery | Rotator cuff repair | MACS lift |
Below, listen to doctors & medical tourists in Mexico as they share their views.
Orthopedic Surgery in Mexico
WLS in Mexico
Dental Treatment in Mexico
Medical Tourism in Mexico – Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider
There is a large diversity when it comes to healthcare providers in Mexico. Some are aware of an international patient’s needs. Still, others may not be well equipped or trained to do so.
Not all healthcare providers have the same high standard of quality you would expect at home. Hence, research is vital while seeking medical care in Mexico.
Focusing on the following criteria helps to select a doctor overseas:
- What safety standards does the hospital overseas follow?
- How close is the hotel zone to the hospital/clinic in Mexico?
- Do Spanish doctors speak English?
- How much is healthcare in Mexico?
- What type of aftercare is available for medical tourists?
- Does my medical insurance cover me in Mexico?
Tips to Choose the Best Medical Provider in Mexico
Look for the hospital’s quality indicators. These include:
- mortality rate
- infection rate
- nurse-patient ratio
- surgery success rate, etc.
Compare them with your provider back home. Also, check out the patient reviews and testimonials for shortlisted clinics.
Every hospital’s in-house team will assure you that they are the best. In this case, a reliable third-party source of information can help.
This way, you will make a more informed decision. At MTC, we prioritize finding the top specialists in each city.
Our verification process includes checking for:
- Experience
- A medical license
- Latest technology
- Patient reviews
- Sterilization protocol
- International accreditations
Top Medical Tourism Destinations in Mexico
Did you know?
Medical tourism in Mexico attracts around 1.2 million Americans yearly.[25]
The country has several safe and reliable medical tourism destinations. From lively cities to serene coastal towns, you have various locations to choose from.
If you're searching for the best medical treatment in Mexico, look no further. We've compiled a list of the top medical facilities in each location.
These places offer affordable medical services, prioritize your safety, and offer high-quality care. So, you're not just saving money; you're getting great care while you're at it!
Medical Tourism in US Mexico Border Cities
Medical tourism along the US-Mexico border is attractive because it offers both accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
In many Mexican border towns, you'll find medical facilities conveniently located. They are within walking distance or less than an hour's drive from the border.
Now, let's take a closer look at the top medical tourism destinations in the US-Mexico border areas.
Medical Tourism in Los Algodones, Mexico
Los Algodones is a small town at the US-Mexico border. It is home to over 350 established dental clinics.[26] Here, our partner clinic has over 35 years of proven dentistry experience.
Review of Dental Tourism in Los Algodones
It is one of the largest and most reputed dental groups in this Molar city.
Best Healthcare Providers in Los Algodones
- Dental treatment: Sani Dental Group & Dental Solutions
- General surgery: Sani Medical
- Regenerative medicine: GIOSTAR
Medical Tourism in Tijuana, Mexico
A gateway to Mexico, that’s Tijuana for you! Here, one can expect an eclectic mix of attractions. This border town acts as a day-trip destination for Americans.
Hassle-free Dental Tourism in Tijuana
With exotic beaches, monuments, and fine restaurants, your medical trip will indeed feel like a vacation.
Best Healthcare Providers in Tijuana
- Dental treatment: Smile Builders, Dental Brush, Improvedent, Wellness Dental Clinic, Quality International Dental, Dr. Mexico, Dental 3 Smiles.
- Bariatric surgery: Dr. Guillermo Lopez (LIMARP hospital), Dr. Luis Cazares (Oasis of Hope), Dr. Hector Perez
- Orthopedic surgery: Dr. Hans Ruiz Serna, Oasis of Hope
- Cosmetic surgery: Dr. Javier Garcia, Dr. Arturo Munoz
- Ophthalmology: Vision Mendez
- Regenerative medicine: Renovation Advanced Therapy
Medical Tourism in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
Nuevo Laredo is yet another US-Mexico border town. The city’s main attractions are colorful streets with classic architecture.
You can also visit museums, parks, and historical places.
Hassle-free Dental Work in Nuevo Laredo
Our partner dentist in Nuevo Laredo has 20+ years of experience.
Best Healthcare Providers in Nuevo Laredo
- Dental treatment: Laredo Smile Center, Family Dental Center
- Bariatric surgery: Dr. Galileo Villareal
Medical Tourism in Nogales, Mexico
Heroica Nogales is more commonly known as Nogales. This Mexico-Arizona border town is a fun and vibrant place.
You can find many curio stores & hotels within walking distance from the clinic.
Benefits of Dental Tourism in Nogales
Like other MTC partner clinics, you can be restful about a safe neighborhood.
Best Healthcare Providers in Nogales
- Dental treatment: Desert Dental
Medical Tourism in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
- Ciudad Juarez is the second most populous city along the US-Mexico border.[27]
- Its proximity to El Paso, Texas, makes it a convenient choice for medical tourists seeking fast treatment.
- This border city also boasts several tourist attractions.
- It includes parks, archaeological sites, white sand dunes, and historical monuments.'
- Additionally, you can expect modern medical care provided by experienced and well-trained professionals.
Best Healthcare Providers in Ciudad Juarez
- Dental treatment: Invo Dental, Nucleo Dental
- Orthopedic surgery: Dr.Jesus Gallarzo (Hospital Angeles)
Medical Tourism in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico
- Nuevo Progreso, bordering Progreso Lakes, Texas, is a popular hub for dental & pharmaceutical services.[28]
- You'll find various items within walking distance, from Mexican candies to jewelry & leather goods.
- Visitors often park on the US side and walk across the bridge for shopping convenience.
- Additionally, our partner dental clinic boasts over 30 years of valuable experience.
Nuevo Progreso
Best Healthcare Providers in Nuevo Progreso
- Dental treatment: Texas Dental Clinic
Medical Tourism in Mexicali, Mexico
Mexicali shares a border with California, US. This Mexican border town is open to adventure and tourism. There’s a vast list of services that can solve practically any medical situation here.
Review of WLS in Mexicali
Best Healthcare Providers in Mexicali
- Dental treatment: RamLanz Dental Clinic
- Cosmetic treatment: Hospital de la Familia
- Opthalmology: Hospital de la Familia
- Ortho & spine: Hospital de la Familia
Medical Tourism in Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a resort city located on the shore of the Caribbean Sea. It offers serene beaches, adventure sports, and vibrant nightlife.
More personalized & professional medical care than in the US is available.
How Safe is Dental Tourism in Cancun?
Best Healthcare Providers in Cancun
- Dental treatment: Dentaris, Cancun Dental Specialists, Sani Dental Group, Neo Dental Group, Canam Smile Makeover
- Bariatric surgery: Dr. Hector Perez
- Orthopedic surgery: Dr. Jesus Raul Arjona
- Cosmetic surgery: Riviera Institute, Dr. Rafael Velasco
- Ophthalmology: Perfect Vision
- General surgery: Dr. Hector Perez
Medical Tourism in Los Cabos, Mexico
Cabo is one of Mexico’s leading travel destinations and a vibrant city. Be sure to expect first-class cuisine, adventure, and fun at every beach or desert attraction.
Review of Dental Work in Los Cabos
You will get high-end dentistry in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Best Healthcare Providers in Los Cabos
Dental treatment: Advanced Cabo Dentistry
Medical Tourism in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is a gourmet city.
Be prepared to treat yourself to many restaurants with famous chefs.
Also, you can enjoy a variety of ocean or mountain-based activities here.
With state-of-the-art facilities, our partner clinics here provide proactive dental care.
Puerto Vallarta
Best Healthcare Providers in Puerto Vallarta
- Dental treatment: International Dental Center, Dental Solutions, Smile Vallarta
- Bariatric & cosmetic Surgeries: CMQ Premier Hospital
- Orthopedic & spine surgeries: Dr. Max Greig
Medical Tourism in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen is a nature-blessed destination.
The city attracts travelers with beaches, theme parks, and exclusive resorts.
Prioritizing safety, our highly credentialed dentists tend to the patients here.
They offer a full range of general & specialized dental care in Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen
Best Healthcare Providers in Playa del Carmen
- Dental treatment: Sani Dental Group
- Regenerative medicine: GIOSTAR
Medical Tourism in Monterrey, Mexico
Monterrey is a metropolis city in Mexico. It invites tourists with exciting culture and food.
Also, you will see that the recommended clinic is in a safe location.
They use the latest techniques & FDA-approved biomaterials.
It brings them one step closer to safe dental treatments.
Monterrey
Best Healthcare Providers in Monterrey
- Dental treatment: Dentistas Teran
Medical Tourism in Merida, Mexico
Merida’s loving nickname is ‘the White City.’ It is for the town’s iconic whitewashed buildings.
Also, archaeological sites and ancient residences encircle it.
Review of Dental Work in Merida
You will find that our certified partner dentists here work in a very safe neighborhood.
Best Healthcare Providers in Merida
- Dental treatment: Whiteline Dental Clinic
Medical Tourism in Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City has a historical reputation for being the best destination for medical tourism in Mexico.[29]
Its proximity to Canada and the US makes it easily accessible. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and snow-covered volcanoes, it offers incredible attractions.
Mexico City
Our partner dental clinic in Mexico City boasts over 30 years of experience, ensuring top-notch patient care.
Best Healthcare Providers in Mexico City
- Dental treatment: Ideal dental center
- Cosmetic surgery: Dr. David de Rungs
Are safety concerns on your mind after finding Mexico's top medical tourism facilities? Get answers below.
Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico for Medical Tourism?
When looking for low-cost health tourism abroad, prioritizing safety & quality is vital. Let's explore how medical tourism in Mexico ensures both secure locations and treatment.
Is Mexico Safe for Tourists?
Mexico is as safe as the United States.
In fact, the crime rate per thousand people is three times higher in the US when compared to Mexico.
Tourist areas are safe due to the Mexican government's dedicated efforts.
Staying at a resort is often a safe choice, even in riskier areas.[30]
Want to know how safe health tourism locations are in Mexico? Check the table below.
| Mexican City | Safety Assessment |
| Los Algodones |
|
| Tijuana |
|
| Nuevo Laredo |
|
| Mexicali |
|
| Mexico City |
|
| Monterrey |
|
| Merida |
|
| Cancun |
|
| Playa del Carmen |
|
| Los Cabos |
|
| Puerto Vallarta |
|
| Nogales | Recently the city has improved visitor safety through law enforcement, surveillance, cross-border cooperation, and tourism initiatives.[43] |
Keep in mind that safety situations in any location can change over time. So, always check for the latest information before planning travel.
MTC partner clinics are in a safe and friendly location. These include commercial zones near hotels, tourist attractions, or near the border.
Is Medical Treatment Safe in Mexico?
World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) marks Mexico’s national destinations with the “Safe Travel” stamp.[44] The country adopts global health and hygiene standards.
Thus, it would be right to say Mexico is safe for Medical Tourism. Also, the following reasons contribute to this:
- The quality of health care services in Mexico is comparable to the States.[45]
- Mexico has the highest number of certified hospitals in Latin America.[46]
- Modern equipment is plentiful in major cities.[47]
- Medicines in Mexico are as safe as it is in the US.[48]
- Most importantly, the healthcare system in Mexico is not profit-driven.[49]
Seeking medical care through a reliable mediator may help alleviate some of the associated risks. It’s because these facilitators mainly work with certified/accredited healthcare providers.
MTC partners with the best medical providers in Mexico for safe, successful treatments. Our stringent vetting process selects top-notch surgeons and hospitals.
Rest assured, you are in capable and secure hands.
Now you know how safe the best healthcare providers are for medical tourism in Mexico. Let's dive into some travel essentials to help you reach your desired destination.
How to Travel to Mexico?
There are many options for getting to Mexico. The easiest way is to fly or drive. You can reach Mexico overland from the US via train, bus, or car.
Air Travel
The country has 45 international airports.[50] Here, we provide flight details to help you reach Mexico’s top medical tourism destinations.
| From | Cancun (CUN) | Los Cabos (SJD) | PVR |
| Dallas (DFW) | 2 hr 45 min | 2 hr 50 min | 2 hr 50 min |
| Miami (MIA) | 1 hr 45 min | 6 hr 17 min* | 6 hr 30 min* |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 15 min | 2 hr 35 min | 2 hr 30 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 4 hr 45 min | 2 hr 20 min | 2 hr 50 min |
| New York (JFK) | 4 hr 20 min | 5 hr 55 min | 7 hr 50 min* |
| Toronto (YYZ) | 4 hr | 7 hr 06min* | 7 hr 17 min* |
| Vancouver (YVR) | 8 hr 20 min* | 6 hr 35 min* | 7 hr 25 min* |
*1 stop flights
| From | Mexico City (MEX) | Monterrey (MTY) | Merida (MID) |
| Miami (MIA) | 3 hr 25 min | 3 hr 44 min | 2 hr 10 min |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 20 min | 1 hr 35 min | 2 hr 08 min |
| Chicago (ORD) | 4 hr 05 min | 3 hr 20 min | 6 hr 10 min* |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 3 hr 30 min | 2 hr 50 min | 7 hr 04 min* |
| San Antonio (SAT) | 2 hr 15 min | 1 hr 10 min | 4 hr 35 min* |
| New York (JFK) | 5 hr 10 min | 4 hr 45 min | 7 hr 30 min* |
| Toronto (YYZ) | 5 hr | 6 hr 45 min* | 9 hr 45 min* |
| Vancouver (YVR) | 5 hr 30 min | 8 hr 25 min* | 8 hr 15 min* |
*1 stop flights
| Mexican city | US Airport | Mexican city | US Airport |
| Los Algodones | Yuma Airport (YUM), Yuma | Nogales | Tucson Airport (TUS), Arizona |
| Tijuana | San Diego Airport (SAN) | Nuevo Progreso | Valley International Airport (HRL), Texas |
| Nuevo Laredo | Laredo Airport (LRD), Texas | Juarez | El Paso Airport (EPL), Texas |
| US Airport to Mexican Border City | Duration | US Airport to Mexican Border City | Duration |
| Yuma (YUM) to Los Algodones | 25 min | Tuscon (TUS) to Nogales | 1 hr |
| San Diego (SAN) to Tijuana | 38 min | HRL to Nuevo Progreso | 42 min |
| Laredo (LRD) to Nuevo Laredo | 30 min | El Paso (EPL) to Juarez | 28 min |
Land Travel
With top medical tourism facilities on the US-Mexico border, Americans often seek quick treatment in Mexico.
There are several convenient ways to access Mexico by land:
- For those visiting border cities like Tijuana or Algodones, you can simply cross the border on foot.
- Alternatively, you can drive or use public transport like trains or buses.
Now, let's take a closer look at each of these methods below.
Traveling by Bus to Mexico From the US
Greyhound offers regular services to major border crossings, including direct routes to Mexican bus stations.[51]
Other US-to-Mexico bus companies include:[52]
- Autobuses Americanos, Autobuses San Luis
- Transportes Baldomero Corral, Tufesa, and
- Transportes Intercalifornias.
Greyhound Bus
Traveling by Train to Mexico From the US
Amtrak is the primary train operator that connects the US/Canada with Mexico.
The most common route for train travel between the two countries is through the Amtrak Sunset Limited.
It travels from Los Angeles, California, to New Orleans, Louisiana, with stops in cities along the way.[53]
Amtrak
Driving for Medical Care in Mexico
Driving to Mexico could take as little as 15 minutes. It is when you are visiting between border towns on both sides. Alternatively, you can park your vehicle on the US side and walk across the border.
The tables below show average driving hours from various US cities to Mexico border cities.
Driving to Tijuana & Los Algodones
| From | Tijuana | Los Algodones |
| San Diego, CA | 25 mins | 2 hr 40 mins |
| Los Angeles, CA | 2 hr 10 mins | 4 hr 20 mins |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 5 hr 15 min | 4 hr 50 mins |
Driving to Ciudad Juarez
| US City | Duration |
| Socorro, Texas | 35 min |
| Sunland Park, New Mexico | 35 min |
| Las Cruces, New Mexico | 1 hr 10 min |
| Tucson, Arizona | 5 hr |
Driving to Nuevo Laredo
| US City | Duration |
| Laredo, Texas | 20 min |
| San Antonio | 2 hr 50 min |
| Corpus Christi | 3 hr |
| Austin | 4 hr 10 min |
Driving to Nogales
| US City | Duration |
| Nogales, AZ | 15 mins |
| Tucson, AZ | 1 hr 15 min |
| Miracle Valley, AZ | 1 hr 44 min |
Driving to Nuevo Progreso
| US City | Duration |
| Progreso, TX | 12 min |
| Weslaco, TX | 20 min |
| Brownsville, TX | 55 mins |
Next, learn about the border crossing lanes between the US and Mexico.
US-Mexico Border Crossing – Which Lane to Use in 2023?
| Lane | Requirement |
 |
Fast Lane (Medical lane)
|
 |
Ready Lane
|
 |
SENTRI Lane (Global entry)
|
 |
Regular (All Traffic) Lane
|
Source: Baja Bound Insurance Services[54]
You can check the live waiting time for entry via any of these lanes. It will help you plan better for your journey across the US-Mexico border.
Tips to Cross US-Tijuana Border
Travel Essentials for Medical Tourism in Mexico
Passport and Visa for Medical Tourism in Mexico
You will need the following documents to enter Mexico.[55]
- A valid passport
- Tourist visa (for stays over 180 days)
- Entry permit (FMM)
Documents Required for Driving to Mexico
To cross the US-Mexico border by car, you must have:[56]
- A valid passport & FMM
- Vehicle import permit
- Valid driver’s license
- Mexican tourist auto insurance
Foreign Embassies in Mexico
US Embassy
- Address: Paseo de la Reforma No. 305, Delegación Cuauhtemoc 6500 México, D. F. Mexico.
- Phone: (+52) (55) 5080-2000
Canadian Embassy
- Address: 3 West Kings House Road, Mexico City, Mexico
- Phone: (+52) (55) 5724-7900
- Currency: The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso, but many of our partner medical providers also accept USD.
- Language: Spanish is the official language of Mexico, but our partner clinics have English-speaking staff and doctors available.
- Time Zone: Mexico operates on Central Standard Time (CST). You won't experience severe jetlag as the time difference between most areas of the US and Canada is minimal.
- Best Time to Visit: Consider planning your medical trip to Mexico during the dry season. This season runs from December to April with minimal rainfall & ideal conditions.[57]
Things to Know Before You Visit Mexico
Creative Travel Guide
Medical Tourism in Mexico – Top Tourist Attractions
Video Courtesy: Joyous Travel
FAQs About Medical Tourism in Mexico
Healthcare providers in Mexico accept cash, credit or debit cards, checks, wire transfers, bank transfers, and PayPal.
In general, Mexico's healthcare system maintains high standards and operates effectively.[58]
- Healthcare services are cost-effective, with major cities hosting excellent hospitals and clinics.
- Many Mexican doctors receive their education or undergo additional training in the US or Europe.
- This results in many English-speaking doctors who provide exceptional care.
However, the quality and availability of healthcare services can vary across regions. So, medical tourists in Mexico should thoroughly research before seeking treatment.
Yes, US citizens can access healthcare in Mexico. Many Americans seek medical treatment in Mexico due to cost savings and quality care.
It is essential to plan & research healthcare providers, facilities, and travel logistics in advance for a seamless healthcare experience in Mexico.
Also, consider appropriate travel and medical insurance when seeking healthcare abroad.
Some of the top global medical tourism destinations include:[59]
- Asian countries such as India, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand
- Central American nations like Brazil, Cuba, Costa Rica, and Mexico
- South Africa and the Middle East, particularly Dubai
- Various destinations in Central and Southern Europe
Medical tourists go here for accredited hospitals, quality and affordable healthcare.
Yes, Mexico is safe for surgery. However, every surgery has inherent risks and complications, regardless of the location.
We mitigate complication risks by:
- Carefully choosing specialists with advanced training.
- Verifying credentials and facility accreditations.
- Researching and selecting top specialists in each Mexican destination.
- Partnering with certified institutions for international patient care.
Conclusion
Medical care for US citizens in Mexico is not only affordable but also accessible. However, ensuring top-notch quality requires thorough research and knowledge of the chosen medical facility.
If you're considering medical travel overseas, MTC is here to assist you every step of the way.
References
- CNN Health: Medical tourism to Mexico is on the rise
- New York Post: 1.2 mn Americans visit Mexico for ‘medical tourism’
- ScienceDirect: Analysis of medical tourism at the Andrade port of entry
- Mexico Relocation Guide: What Are Your Healthcare Options in Mexico?
- Omnia Health: Medical Tourism: Passport To Quality Care
- IFP News: Top 6 Medical Tourism Destinations in the World
- InternationalLiving: Mexico Country Guide
- AP News: Traveling outside US for care is common
- MexicoNews Daily: Doctors, confront coronavirus with long hours & low pay
- abc15.com: Arizona man turns to Mexico to study medicine and avoid debt
- Pacific Prime Latin America: Complete Guide to Medical Tourism in Mexico
- Focus on Mexico: Medical Tourism in Mexico
- U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico: Medical Information
- InternationalLiving: The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2023
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- Bloomberg: How a Tiny Mexican Border City Built a Budget Dental Empire
- World Population Review: Ciudad Juarez Population 2023
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- Chester Travels: Is Tijuana Safe?
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- Travel Weekly: Destinations across Mexico earn their WTTC stamp
- InternationalLiving: Healthcare in Mexico
- Oxford Business Group: Investment in expanding Mexico's medical tourism
- Infobae: How many airports does Mexico have
- RoughGuides: How to get to Mexico
- Whatmexico: Mexico Bus Travel
- Baja Bound Insurance Services: Border Crossing - Which Lane do I use?
- Travel.State.Gov: Mexico
- Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S. - Mexico Border by Land
- AudleyTravel: When is the best time to visit Mexico?
- International Citizens Insurance: Mexico’s Healthcare System
- New-medical.net: World Medical Tourism Review