Heart Disease And Belize: Can You Live There?

Belize is a beautiful country in Central America, known for its tropical climate, lush rainforests, and diverse culture. While it may be a desirable location for retirement or relocation, it is important to consider the healthcare system, especially if you have a pre-existing condition like heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death from illness in Belize, and the quality of medical care in the country varies. While basic medical care is accessible and some improvements have been made in recent years, more specialized care and advanced treatments may be limited. Here, we will explore the topic of living in Belize with heart disease and discuss the healthcare options, insurance considerations, and how to make an informed decision about relocating with a pre-existing health condition.

Belize's healthcare system

The MoH offers affordable care to a majority of Belizeans, with a strong focus on providing quality healthcare through a range of public programs and institutions. The private health sector, on the other hand, provides care to a smaller portion of the population but at a relatively low cost and with a similar emphasis on quality.

There are only eight major public hospitals and around 60 public clinics in Belize, which remain underfunded, understaffed, and undersupplied. Despite this, Belize City offers the highest level of care in the country. The public hospitals and clinics provide very low-cost or free healthcare services, but this often results in long waiting times. A Belize Health Information System card (BHIS) is mandatory for anyone seeking treatment in a public healthcare facility, including expats.

The standard of healthcare across the country is generally low, and medical procedures are limited. Private healthcare facilities in Belize City cater to expats and global citizens, but they remain expensive. The private health sector has grown in recent years, especially in urban areas, and offers comprehensive coverage, including secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.

There is a shortage of medical professionals in Belize, with many doctors and medical professionals being foreign nationals working as volunteers. This shortage, along with a lack of medical supplies and equipment, hinders the delivery of quality health services, especially in rural areas. Emergency services are mostly limited to urban towns and cities, with a lack of ambulances in remote areas.

While basic medical healthcare in Belize is considered better than that of its immediate neighbours in Central America, the quality falls short of the standards in the US and other neighbouring countries. Many expats opt to leave the country for more complicated medical treatments, and some acquire international health insurance that covers the cost of overseas medical care and emergency treatment.

Life expectancy at birth in Belize is about 72 years, which matches that of the USA. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both males and females, but the incidence of death from heart illnesses is declining as Belizeans pay more attention to the causes, such as smoking, lack of exercise, and a diet high in fats.

Heart disease risk factors

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and it is also a major cause of disability. While some risk factors for heart disease are uncontrollable, such as age, sex, race, and family history, there are also many risk factors that can be managed or changed. Understanding these risk factors and making lifestyle changes can significantly lower your risk of developing heart disease. Here are some of the key risk factors for heart disease:

Uncontrollable Risk Factors:

• Age: The risk of heart disease increases with age, with men aged 45 and older and women aged 55 and older at a higher risk.
• Sex: Men have a higher risk of heart disease than premenopausal women, but the risk increases for women after menopause.
• Race and Ethnicity: Certain racial and ethnic groups have higher risks, including African Americans, Native Americans, Mexican Americans, Hispanic Americans, and South Asian Americans.
• Family History: Having a close family member diagnosed with heart disease at an early age increases your risk.

Controllable Risk Factors:

• High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a major risk factor and can lead to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
• High Cholesterol: High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease and is linked to other risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes doubles the risk of heart disease and can lead to heart damage.
• Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart attack and is the most preventable risk factor.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity increases the risk of heart disease, while exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
• Unhealthy Diet: A diet high in saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars can contribute to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Alcohol Consumption: Drinking excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure and contribute to weight gain, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.
• Stress: Poorly controlled stress can worsen heart disease and contribute to other risk factors such as smoking and overeating.

While some risk factors for heart disease are beyond our control, making positive lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on reducing the overall risk. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to assess your individual risk factors and develop a personalized plan to lower your risk of heart disease.

Belize's visa options

Belize offers a wide range of visa options, including:

Tourist Visa

This is the most common temporary visa option. It is granted upon entering the country and allows visitors to stay for 30 days. The tourist visa can be extended for an additional 30, 60, or 90 days for $100 per 30-day period. This visa does not allow the holder to work in Belize.

Temporary Employment Permit (Work Permit)

This visa allows individuals to remain in Belize for up to one year and work for a specific employer. The application process involves three steps and requires a long list of documents, including a police report from your local law enforcement agency. The work permit fee is usually $1,500, and the permit is only valid for the employer it was issued for.

Qualified Retirement Program (QRP)

The QRP is a residency program offered by the Belize Tourism Board for individuals over 45 who can demonstrate a monthly retirement income of at least $2,000. The program includes zero-duty importation on vehicles and personal items during the first year. The application fee is $150, and the annual renewal fee is $25 per person for a new ID card.

Permanent Residency

Permanent residency is for those who have made Belize their home. To apply, individuals must demonstrate that they have lived in Belize for the past 365 days, with a maximum of 14 days spent out of the country, and show proof of financial stability. The application process involves several steps, including interviews with the Immigration and Police Departments, and the submission of various documents such as medical certificates and tests. The fees for US citizens are $2,000, including a security bond.

Citizenship

After being a permanent resident for at least five years, individuals may apply to become citizens of Belize. During those five years, residents cannot have spent more than 30 consecutive days out of the country or accumulated more than three months outside Belize in any given 12-month period. The citizenship fee is $150, and Belize allows dual citizenship.

The cost of healthcare in Belize

Public healthcare in Belize is free or very inexpensive for Belizeans, but expats are liable to pay for all medical costs incurred at public or private facilities. Public healthcare facilities are underfunded, understaffed, and under-supplied, and the standard of healthcare across the country is generally low. However, public clinics are located throughout the country, with the exception of some rural areas, and can treat minor ailments and many emergencies.

Private healthcare facilities in Belize are more expensive but offer more comprehensive care. Most expats prefer the better care provided at private hospitals, where fees are still considered reasonable. Private healthcare is more readily available in urban areas, and it is recommended that expats opt for comprehensive international health insurance before moving to Belize.

The cost of common medical surgeries and services in Belize is considered reasonable, with a hernia surgery costing under $2,500 and a cataract surgery costing up to $2,500 per eye. Dental care in Belize is also considered to be of excellent quality and reasonably priced.

Pharmacies in Belize are generally well-stocked in larger towns, except for specialized medications, and prices are low. Many medicines that would require a prescription in the US are available over the counter, and drugstores will sell you a large supply at once.

International health insurance that covers the cost of overseas medical care and emergency evacuation is recommended for expats, as an ambulance flight can cost upwards of $15,000. Premiums vary widely and increase substantially for those over 60 years of age.

Belize's crime rate

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world. In 2022, the country's murder rate was 25.6 per 100,000 people, which is significantly higher than the regional average of 18.3 per 100,000. While the number of murders decreased between 2021 and 2022, other major crimes increased during this period.

Serious gang-related violence is a significant concern in Belize, especially in Southside Belize City, where gangs are known to use weapons to resolve disputes and fight for control over territories for illegal activities. Tourists are not usually targeted by gang violence, but anyone could find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.

In June 2024, the government of Belize declared a state of emergency in Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village due to high levels of crime. Security forces were granted the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest.

In addition to gang violence, drug and human trafficking, organized crime, and street gang activity are prevalent in Belize. Violent incidents, including home break-ins and physical assaults, have been on the rise, with an increase in the number of incidents targeting foreign nationals.

Border areas, particularly around the border with Guatemala, often see higher criminal activity and violence. Criminals are known to target tourists in these areas, including at popular tourist sites such as the Mayan ruins at Caracol.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, also occurs in Belize, with tourists being common targets, even at resorts. Criminals often operate in groups and target individuals travelling alone. Credit card and ATM fraud are also common, especially in San Pedro.

To avoid becoming a victim of crime in Belize, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid travelling after dark, and avoid displaying signs of affluence. It is also recommended to carry valid ID at all times and keep cash, valuables, and personal belongings secure.

Frequently asked questions