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What if I need a doctor?

What to do if you need a doctor, the private hospitals we point our travelers to with their phone numbers, and how insurance works there.

For an emergency, call 911 first, then see What should I do in an emergency?

For anything else, from a fever to a twisted ankle, call or WhatsApp us on +506 8352-9916. We will tell you where to go nearby and help you get there.

These are the private hospitals we point our travelers to:

  • Hospital CIMA, Escazú, San José: +506 2208-1000, or 1 (855) 782-6253 from the US. Emergency room open 24 hours.
  • Hospital Clínica Bíblica, central San José: +506 2522-1000. Emergency room open 24 hours.
  • Clínica Bíblica Liberia, Guanacaste: +506 2690-5500. Open 24 hours for urgent care.
  • Hospital Metropolitano Quepos, near Manuel Antonio: +506 4070-4040. Urgent care Monday to Saturday, 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Two things to know before you need them. Private hospitals usually ask for payment or proof of insurance before treating you, and most do not take US health insurance or Medicare. So keep your travel insurance details on your phone, call your insurer's assistance line as early as you can, and keep every receipt and medical report for your claim.

Outside San José, medical care can be more limited, which is why we suggest a travel insurance policy that includes medical evacuation (see Do I need travel insurance?).

If you take any medicine, bring enough for the whole trip and a few extra days, in its original packaging, with a copy of the prescription.