Seguro Popular is an option for foreigners residing in Mexico, it is a medical service offered by the Mexican government for those individuals that do not have with any other form of state issued medical care such as: IMSS, ISSSTE, SEDENA, etc.
1. What is Seguro Popular?
It is a state issued medical service that provides medical and surgical services, as well as pharmaceuticals hospitals and preventive health services. Its main objective is to provide financial protection to the non-insured population, through a scheme of health insurance, public and voluntary.
2. Who is it for?
Families and individuals who are not beneficiaries of the social security institutions or do not have some other mechanism of social security in health.
3. Is it is free?
In most cases it is free, a socioeconomic study might be required in order to set the premium.
4. What conditions are covered?
Currently Seguro Popular covers 284 medical interventions contained in the Universal Health Services Catalogue. This means that Seguro Popular will cover more than 90% percent of hospital casesm, 100% in health centers and 58% interventions for Catastrophic Expenses.
5. Can I join Seguro Popular if I have previous conditions?
Yes, however, the ideal is to apply for your membership when you are healthy.
6. If I am traveling out of my city, I am covered?
Yes, as long as it is an emergency and you present your current policy at the emergency room.
7. What if I lose my policy?
Go to the local office where you joined Seguro Populal and ask for a copy of your policy.
8. Do I have to pay for my medication in the Seguro Popular?
No, medication should be provided free to beneficiaries necessary for the treatment of diseases associated with conditions included in the Universal Health Services Catalogue.
9. Does Seguro Popular covers laboratory studies?
Yes, as long as they are required for the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that are within the Universal Health Services Catalogue.
10. If I require an ambulance, is it covered?
No, both land and air ambulance are not covered by Seguro Popular.
11. Can I choose the clinic or hospital where I want to go?
A health center or hospital will be assigned to each beneficiary. If there is more than one option in the area the patient might be asked to choose their medical center or doctor.
12. I’m a foreigner, can I enroll in Seguro Popular?
Yes, it is possible to enroll as long as you can prove your lawful stay in the country with a migratory form.
The foreign national will have to present the following requirements:
- CURP
- Migratory forms (immigrant or nonimmigrant or permanent resident)
- Passport
As you can see, Seguro Popular is another good option for health care in Mexico. Sadly most of the centers have mainly Spanish speaking staff, so be prepared to use your Spanish or ask a friend to go with you and translate.
Even though medical treatments, medications, and doctor visits are very reasonably priced many foreigners living in Mexico have some form of health insurance. Whether you opted for IMSS (Mexican Institute for Social Security), Seguro Popular, private health insurance or a combination of these, it is always better to be covered medical wise should an emergency arise.
