Why Choose Costa Rica for Medical Tourism?
Costa Rica has emerged as one of the top destinations for medical tourism due to its high-quality healthcare, affordability, and beautiful surroundings that make recovery more comfortable.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable Healthcare – Up to 50-70% savings compared to the U.S. and Canada.
- World-Class Medical Facilities – JCI-accredited hospitals and internationally trained doctors.
- Proximity to North America – Short flights from major U.S. cities.
- Tourism-Friendly Environment – Beaches, rainforests, and eco-lodges make for a great recovery setting.
Top Medical Procedures Available in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a wide range of medical treatments across various specialties. Here are some of the most sought-after procedures:
1. Dental Care
- Dental Implants – $750–$1,200 per implant (vs. $3,000–$5,000 in the U.S.)
- All-on-4 & All-on-6 Dental Implants
- Crowns & Veneers – $250–$500 per crown
- Root Canals – $200–$400
Recommended Clinics:
- Nova Dental (San José)
- Goodness Dental (Escazú)
- Costa Rica Dental Team
2. Cosmetic Surgery
- Rhinoplasty – $3,500–$5,500 (vs. $10,000 in the U.S.)
- Liposuction – $2,500–$5,000
- Tummy Tuck – $4,000–$6,000
- Breast Augmentation – $3,500–$5,500
Top Clinics:
- Clínica UNIBE
- Dr. Arnoldo Fournier’s Clinic
3. Orthopedic Surgery
- Hip Replacement – $10,000–$14,000 (vs. $40,000+ in the U.S.)
- Knee Replacement – $9,000–$12,000
Recommended Hospitals:
- CIMA Hospital (JCI-accredited)
- Hospital Clínica Bíblica
4. Bariatric Surgery
- Gastric Sleeve – $8,500–$10,000
- Gastric Bypass – $10,000–$12,500
Top Surgeons & Hospitals:
- Dr. Jacobo Zafrani at CIMA
- Clínica Bíblica’s Bariatric Unit
5. Fertility Treatments
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) – $5,000–$7,500 per cycle (vs. $15,000–$20,000 in the U.S.)
- Egg Freezing
Best Fertility Clinics:
- Fertility Institute of Costa Rica
Cost Comparison: Costa Rica vs. USA
| Procedure | Costa Rica | USA | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implant | $750–$1,200 | $3,000–$5,000 | 60-70% |
| Rhinoplasty | $3,500–$5,500 | $10,000+ | 50-60% |
| Hip Replacement | $10,000–$14,000 | $40,000+ | 60-70% |
| IVF Treatment | $5,000–$7,500 | $15,000+ | 50-60% |
Best Hospitals & Clinics for Medical Tourism
Costa Rica is home to internationally recognized hospitals and specialty clinics.
Top JCI-Accredited Hospitals
- CIMA Hospital (San José) – Internationally accredited, English-speaking staff, modern facilities.
- Hospital Clínica Bíblica (San José) – Over 90 years of experience in healthcare.
- Hospital La Católica (San José) – Trusted for affordable private care.
Specialty Clinics
- Nova Dental – Specializing in full-mouth restorations.
- Clinica UNIBE – Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
Traveling to Costa Rica for Medical Tourism
Entry Requirements (2024)
- No visa needed for U.S., Canadian, and most European travelers (stay up to 90 days).
- COVID-19: No restrictions currently in place, but always check updates.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended, especially policies that cover medical procedures and trip interruptions.
Best Cities for Medical Tourism
- San José – The hub for hospitals and clinics.
- Escazú – Upscale area with private clinics and recovery centers.
- Guanacaste – Ideal for post-surgery recovery in a resort-like environment.
Where to Stay During Recovery
Many medical tourists choose recovery retreats or extended-stay hotels for post-surgery healing.
Recommended Medical Recovery Centers
- Las Cumbres Inn – Offers medical support and comfort.
- Oasis Medical Retreat – Specializes in post-op care.
- Costa Rica Recovery Retreats – Luxury healing environment.
Hotels with Medical Packages
- Apartotel & Suites Villas del Río – Close to top hospitals, long-stay friendly.
- Holiday Inn San José-Escazú – Near major clinics.
What to Do While Recovering in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers peaceful environments to aid in recovery.
Top Post-Treatment Recovery Destinations
- La Fortuna – Hot springs and natural healing.
- Manuel Antonio – Relaxing beaches.
- Monteverde – Fresh air and scenic views.
How to Choose the Right Doctor or Clinic
Key Factors to Consider
✔ Accreditations – Look for JCI or AAAASF accreditation.
✔ Doctor’s Experience – Check training, reviews, and certifications.
✔ Patient Reviews – Read testimonials from past medical tourists.
✔ Clinic’s Specialization – Choose a facility with a track record in your procedure.
How to Verify a Doctor’s Credentials
- Colegio de Médicos y Cirujanos de Costa Rica – Official medical board verification.
- Check Google & Facebook reviews for real patient experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare in Costa Rica safe?
Yes! Many doctors are U.S.-trained, and hospitals follow international standards.
2. How much can I save?
Savings range from 50-70% compared to U.S. prices.
3. Do doctors in Costa Rica speak English?
Most specialists and staff at private hospitals speak fluent English.
4. How do I book an appointment?
Most clinics offer WhatsApp or online scheduling.
5. What payment methods are accepted?
- Cash (USD widely accepted)
- Credit Cards
- Medical Financing (Some clinics offer payment plans)
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is an excellent choice for medical tourists seeking affordable, high-quality care in a beautiful, relaxing environment. Whether you’re considering dental work, cosmetic surgery, or orthopedic procedures, Costa Rica’s top-notch healthcare system makes it a leading destination for medical travel.
Next Steps:
🔹 Contact a recommended clinic for a free quote
🔹 Book flights & accommodation
🔹 Plan your recovery period with a trusted facility