The IMSS clinic is usually pretty busy so foreign residents use it only for big emergencies. Generally, they use their own private physician for minor problems. Some foreign residents take out private health insurance through one of the many carriers which abound in the country. When they need surgery or some other serious problem treated they check into the del Carmen Hospital in Guadalajara or one of the other fine Mexican hospitals. Some Medicines Cheaper and Easier to Buy Your need for medicines and drugs may be easier to satisfy in Mexico because many drugs available only by prescription in the U.S. are available over the counter.
Most prescription drugs are much cheaper but some familiar remedies do cost more.
Some cost less. We are not sure why. Only drugs containing narcotics require prescriptions. Drug stores are conveniently located and some are open 24 hours a day. Anyone interested in applying must do so by the end of February or the end of August.