Medical Insurance vs IMSS

[M Webber]

I saw the posts from several years ago regarding the IMSS for Health care, and since things appear to have changed many ways in Mexico in the last couple of years I assume that the IMSS and private medical isurance coverage have changes in ways too.
I am interested in any information and opions, and preferences to the IMSS and private medical insurance.
Benifits of either?
Current Costs?
Satisfaction with IMSS or a private carrier, and recomendations?

Thanks always
Mike

[roberb7]

IMSS is working for me. It now costs 5,200 pesos a year for people over 60.

[doncoulter]

I remain content with IMSS. There is a lot of bureaucracy and a lot of waiting, but that doesn't set IMSS apart from just about any other health plan.

Keep in mind that the yearly IMSS fee covers everything. I see lots of specialists, get a lot of lab work done, and take lots of meds, and there's never an extra charge.

Don

[raquelita]

IMSS has three levels:

Family Practitioner in Cata - where you go for routine appts, specialist referrals and to receive prescriptions; pick up the meds at their pharmacy (usually generics, not all meds available)

Hospital #10 in Cantador - where you go for lab tests, X ray, EKGs etc; for appts with internal medicine or cardiologist, and to make the actual appointments with specialists or tests in Leon (for the documents which pay for your transportation there). As IMSS procedures can be bewildering at first, know that Vero at the kiosk nearest the door is there to help. Has an emergency department & some inpatient care.

Hospital #1 in Leon: About a 20 minute ride by public transport from the bus station.
Where the other specialists are, specialized tests too. Also related inpatient care.

IMSS specialists are well-qualified doctors who moonlight with IMSS in order to qualify for pensions.

Having said all this, you may also want to check out Seguro Popular, the option that doesn't cost anything. Located at the corner between Mercado Hidalgo and IMSS Cantador, with ties to the Hospital General (near the bus station) and specialized care in Leon. You cannot belong to both IMSS and Seguro Popular, have to choose, so ask around before you make the leap.

If you go the IMSS route, sign up in a month when you will regularly be in town as you always have to renew the same month.