Medical Facilities and Training at Lake Chapala Ajijic, Mexico
June 16, 2010
Yes, we have modern hospitals, complete with sophisticated technology and highly skilled medical professionals both at Lake Chapala and nearby Guadalajara. These medical facilities provide good quality care, on par, or according to some retirees “superior” care compared to that in the United States. 
The larger hospitals in the Lake Chapala area have arrangements with private U.S. insurance companies including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Morgan White, Aetna, and ING. Tricare, the U.S. military’s health system, has a global network of providers for U.S. military and their families to access health care, which includes Mexico. Doctor Training in Mexico Medical programs in Mexico require undergraduate and six years of schooling. Although less than the U.S. pre-residency programs of undergraduate and six years, many medical students in Mexico began preparing for medical school in preparatory school. While medical education in Mexico is structured differently than in the United States, U.S. retirees report a high level of satisfaction for the quality of care delivered by their Mexican doctors. Nurses There are three general types of Nurses Auxiliares de Enfermerias, (Nurses Aids) This category must have 6-9 years of basic education followed by a training course of 6 months to 1 year. Enfermeras tecnicas, ( technical nurses) This group must complete 9 years of basic education and a 3-year vocational course. Professional nurses (enfermeras licenciadas) This group must complete12 years of basic education and obtain a degree in Nursing and Obstetrics from a 4-year university. Home Health Care Professional nursing and in-home care services are available for the communities surrounding Lake Chapala. Services include 24-hour home care, specialized treatments, rental and sale of medical equipment and home delivery or pick-up of medical supplies. The Mexican Social Security System also provides Health Care Insurance, which is available for purchase by foreign residents for less than $1 US, Dollar per day. This program is referred to as I.M.S.S.
