Healthcare System in Guatemala: everything you need to know

How does the Healthcare System in Guatemala work?

Guatemala’s healthcare system is divided in two sectors: public and private. The public system is financed through general taxes, the affiliate’s contribution and the employer’s contribution to the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS). The Public Health and Social Assistance Ministry (MSPAS) is also a part of the public health system and gives coverage to 70% of Guatemala’s population. The Military Health is in charge of offering coverage to all members of the armed forces and their families.

The IGSS is responsible for the coverage to the staff and their families. This includes spouses and children under the age of 5. The Military Health also covers hospitalization and rehabilitation.

The private system, financed through direct payment from its users and the health plans premiums, tends to people with greater resources –  about 12% of Guatemala's population.

However, the public and private system together are not able to cover and provide health services to the whole country’s population. As in many other countries in the region, high quality medical attention is only available in big cities, and at a high price which is not accessible to everyone. 

Guatemala still has a high child mortality and malnutrition index, and its health system is considered one of the most deficient and weakest of Central America. Only 3% of Guatemala’s government budget is destined for health. 

How does the system work for foreigners? 

As a foreigner, you’ll have the option to seek attention at a private health center if you wish to do so. Given the precariousness of the public system, the best option to get attention is at a private clinic. The best service is located at the country’s capital city – Guatemala City – but it can be very expensive. Therefore, it is very important that you have good health insurance if you’re traveling or moving to Guatemala. 

Given the fact that Guatemala is tropical country, there are plenty of illnesses, such as malaria and dengue, that require immediate medical attention. 

If you’re traveling to Guatemala, hire health insurance. And if you’re moving permanently to said country and do not wish to affiliate yourself to the private system, get an international health insurance. To quote the best insurances, visit InternationalHealth.com, where you’ll be able to compare and hire insurance with coverage in Guatemala. 

What do I do in case of an emergency in Guatemala? 

The Guatemalan Red Cross offers 24 hour emergency assistance. You can contact them by calling 125 from a cellphone or landline. 

There are other numbers you can call depending on the type of emergency you are in. You can check them down below:

Firefighters: 123

Police: 110

IGSS Ambulance: 119