Health Care System in Costa Rica
Comparing Costa Rica's Health Care Plans

Here is a brief comparison of the Caja and the INS medical plans available in Costa Rica.

1. Covers doctor's visits, medications, examinations and hospitalization.
2. Doctors are assigned to the patient.
3. Covers pre-existing conditions.
4. Covers all medications including dental and eyes.

Some reasons to consider this plan:

1. Have pre-existing health condition and do not qualify for INS insurance.
2. Take medication on a regular basis.
3. Have it as major medical in case of serious illness.

Monthly premiums cover all illnesses for the member and his immediate family for that month. The cost through the ARCR if younger than 55 years old is $58 per month; $37 per month if 55 years or older.

INS  The semi-autonomous government insurance company.

1. Covers 75 percent of the cost of doctor's visits, medications, examinations and hospitalization.
2. Individual chooses the doctor.
3. Does not cover any pre-existing medical condition.
4. Does not cover most dental or eye exams, treatments or glasses, preventive medical check-up, illness or disorders related to female reproductive organs during the first 12 months of coverage, or birth of a baby during the first six months of coverage.

Some reasons ARCR members have the INS plan.

1. Can choose a doctor.
2. Can make doctor's appointments with less red tape.

Rates of coverage depend on age and sex; 20 percent deductible for each doctor's visit.

"Baby boomers are redefining retirement - and leading the move to a new generation of dream countries"

AARP Magazine

Christopher Howard's The New Golden Door to Retirement and Living in Cost Rica, is important when doing research about moving to Costa Rica.

By Hillary Chura
New York Times
July 30, 2005