Using Medicare In Belize: What You Need To Know

Belize has a relatively well-established healthcare system, with public and private hospitals and clinics in every major city and town. However, the standard of medical care in Belize does not meet the same standards as in North America or the European Union, and there are no level-one trauma centres in the country. While medical care in Belize is improving, there is still a need for more healthcare facilities, specialised physicians and staff, and better equipment. As such, many expats opt to pay out of pocket for routine care in Belize and fly to the US, Mexico, or Guatemala for more specialised or long-term treatment.

Medicare does not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs outside of the United States, so it will not reimburse any medical facility in Belize.

Medicare will not reimburse medical facilities in Belize

Medicare is a US-based healthcare system that provides coverage for US citizens. However, it is important to note that Medicare coverage is typically limited to the United States. This means that if you are a US citizen with Medicare coverage and you choose to travel or relocate to another country, your medical expenses may not be covered by Medicare.

Belize, for example, is a country with a relatively well-established medical care delivery system, but it does not meet the same standards as medical care in North America. The country has a small population of just over 400,000, with more than half living in poverty. As a result, the economics of the country cannot support the level of medical care that one may be accustomed to in the United States.

In fact, the US Embassy in Belize recommends that visitors and residents obtain any necessary medical care before arriving in Belize. They also advise citizens to verify whether their medical coverage includes the cost of medical evacuation to the United States, as this is not typically covered by Medicare or other health insurance providers.

Therefore, it is important for individuals with Medicare coverage who are considering relocating to or even visiting Belize to carefully review their coverage and explore alternative insurance options to ensure they have adequate protection in the event of a medical emergency.

Routine care in Belize is inexpensive, so many pay out of pocket

Belize's healthcare system has been steadily improving over the years. However, the country still needs more healthcare facilities, specialised physicians, and better equipment. With fewer than 400,000 residents, Belize's revenue base is inadequate to fund a large number of public hospitals. Despite this, Belize has dedicated and caring doctors who offer personal attention to their patients. They freely give out their cellphone numbers and make house calls.

Public clinics and hospitals in Belize offer free or very inexpensive healthcare services to Belizeans. However, expats have to pay out of pocket for treatment at public or private facilities. The standard of healthcare in the country is low, and private healthcare in Belize City, which caters to expats, can be expensive. Therefore, many expats with Medicare in the US or coverage under the Canadian healthcare system typically pay out of pocket for routine care in Belize and then travel back to their home country for surgery or long-term medical treatment.

The cost of common medical procedures in Belize is quite reasonable. For example, hernia surgery typically costs under $2,500, and cataract surgery can cost up to $2,500 per eye. Additionally, prices at pharmacies are low, and most drugstores sell medicines over the counter that would require prescriptions in the US.

While Belize's healthcare system has its shortcomings, the country has been working to improve the standard of healthcare. The Ministry of Health in Belize is responsible for creating significant reforms in the medical arena. They subsidise medications, vaccinations, and emergency surgeries, although patients must pay for diagnoses and laboratory tests. Despite the improvements, the country still faces challenges due to limited resources and a small population.

Medicare Part A is free for most people

Medicare Part A is usually free for most people, but it does have other costs, like deductibles and coinsurance. Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, hospice services, and limited stays at a skilled nursing facility. If you've worked for at least 40 quarters and paid Medicare taxes, you won't have to pay a premium.

If you or your spouse have worked for fewer than 40 quarters, there is a monthly premium to pay for Medicare Part A. In 2024, the standard monthly cost is $278 if you or your spouse worked for 30-39 quarters, and $505 if you or your spouse worked fewer than 30 quarters.

Medicare Part A is typically free for those aged 65 or older, as long as they or their spouse worked for at least 40 quarters (10 years). This is because they paid Medicare taxes during their working years. If you have a disability, you can also get free Medicare Part A without meeting the work requirements.

In Belize, medical care is generally considered to be of poorer quality than in North America. The country has dedicated and caring doctors who offer personalised attention, but there is a lack of healthcare facilities, specialised physicians and staff, and advanced equipment. Most expats in Belize who require surgery or long-term medical treatment fly to the US or neighbouring countries like Mexico or Guatemala.

Medicare Part B is costly and unnecessary for those living in Belize

Medicare Part B is an optional coverage that helps pay for basic healthcare services, including medically necessary services and preventive services. However, for those living in Belize, Medicare Part B may be unnecessary and costly. Here's why:

First, it's important to understand the healthcare system in Belize. Belize's healthcare system has been improving, but it still falls short of North American standards. The country lacks sufficient healthcare facilities, specialised physicians, and advanced equipment. Most expats in Belize opt for private hospitals, which offer more comprehensive care at reasonable costs. However, even these private hospitals may not offer the same level of care as hospitals in the US.

Now, let's discuss why Medicare Part B may not be necessary for those living in Belize:

• Limited Coverage in Belize: Medicare Part B covers services from doctors and healthcare providers, durable medical equipment, and preventive services. However, as previously mentioned, the quality of healthcare in Belize varies, and some services may not be widely available. Medicare Part B coverage may not be fully utilised in Belize due to the limitations of the local healthcare system.
• Out-of-Pocket Payments: Expats in Belize often pay out-of-pocket for routine care and minor emergencies. The cost of common medical services and surgeries in Belize is generally affordable, and expats may not exceed their Medicare Part B deductibles. As a result, Medicare Part B coverage may not provide significant financial benefits for those living in Belize.
• International Health Insurance Alternatives: Many international health insurance companies offer plans specifically designed for expats living in Belize. These plans often include coverage for emergency evacuation to the US or other countries, which is recommended for expats in Belize. These specialised international plans may provide more comprehensive coverage for healthcare needs in Belize and during travel.
• Medicare's Limitations: It's important to note that Medicare, including Part B, does not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs outside of the United States. This means that any medical expenses incurred in Belize would not be covered by Medicare Part B.

In conclusion, while Medicare Part B can be beneficial for those living in the United States, it may not offer the same value for individuals residing in Belize. The local healthcare system, out-of-pocket payments, alternative insurance options, and Medicare's limitations all contribute to Medicare Part B being potentially costly and unnecessary for those living in Belize. Instead, expats in Belize may prefer to rely on a combination of out-of-pocket payments for routine care and international health insurance plans that cover emergency evacuations to access healthcare services effectively.

Private health insurance is recommended for emergency evacuation coverage

Private Health Insurance for Emergency Evacuation Coverage

Private health insurance is highly recommended for anyone travelling to Belize. The country's medical care does not meet the same standards as the US, and there are no level-one trauma centres in the country. While minor ailments and emergencies can be treated at public clinics and Red Cross emergency stations, which are available throughout the country, the quality of care is not on par with US hospitals and neighbouring countries.

Ambulance Services

Belize has both public and private ambulance services. Ambulance costs can be extremely high, with an ambulance flight costing upwards of $10,000 to $15,000. Therefore, it is essential to have adequate insurance coverage for emergency evacuation.

International Health Insurance

Expats in Belize typically rely on emergency evacuation coverage provided by their international health insurance policy. This type of coverage is crucial, especially for those with existing medical conditions or health issues.

Travel Insurance

For travellers, it is not mandatory to have travel insurance when visiting Belize, but it is highly recommended. Travel insurance plans should include emergency medical evacuation coverage, which will help with the cost of emergency air evacuation and repatriation if necessary.

Recommended Insurance Companies

Several companies offer international health insurance that covers emergency evacuation, including:

• Cigna Global
• Bupa/IHI
• International Medical Group
• Pacific Prime
• Trawick
• Seven Corners
• Travelex
• Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Generali Global Assistance
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
• HTH Travel Insurance

Frequently asked questions