- What makes Brett LaMar’s insurance different?
Brett specializes in health insurance for expats living in or visiting Mexico. Having lived in Mexico since 2015—including Puerto Vallarta, Querétaro and Quintana Roo—Brett understands many of the healthcare and insurance challenges foreigners encounter. He understands and has relationships with private hospitals, local doctors, and the realities foreigners face—something most international brokers do not. Brett is also a US licensed Health and Life Insurance Broker and former US Marine.
- Who is this insurance for?
These plans may be appropriate for::
Long-term residents (temporary or permanent)
Snowbirds
Part-time residents
Digital nomads
Retirees
Visitors staying longer than a few weeks
Anyone wanting private hospital access & English-speaking support
- What types of plans does Brett offer?
Clients can choose from:
Annual Major Medical Plans (inpatient & outpatient)
Short term Emergency-only plans
Plans with optional U.S. coverage
Plans with access to extensive private-hospital networks in Mexico and, depending on the policy, internationally.
- Can Americans and Canadians apply for coverage?
Yes. Brett works with insurers serving North American expatriates. Applications are available in English, but acceptance and policy terms depend on medical underwriting, age, health history and the insurer’s eligibility requirements.
- Which hospitals can I use?
Depending on the insurer, plan, location and required authorization, coverage may be available at major private-hospital groups such as Hospital Ángeles, Star Médica, San Javier, Puerta de Hierro, Hospital H+, Médica Sur, Joya and CMQ. Brett will verify the applicable network when comparing plans.
- What does expat health insurance typically cover?
Coverage varies but often includes:
ER & hospital care
Surgeries
Specialist visits
Diagnostics (labs, imaging, MRI/CT)
Cancer treatment
ICU
Ambulance services
Medications (prescribed under coverage)
Emergency evacuation
Optional U.S. coverage
- Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Treatment of pre-existing conditions varies considerably. A condition may be excluded, covered with a surcharge or limitation, considered after a waiting period, or declined. All medical history should be disclosed accurately during underwriting.
- Can I buy insurance if I’m already in Mexico?
Yes. Most clients sign up after arriving in Mexico.
- How fast does coverage start?
Coverage begins on the policy’s effective date after approval and any required premium payment. Some benefits may be available immediately, while illnesses, maternity care or specific treatments may have waiting periods. Brett will explain the applicable dates and limitations before enrollment.
- How much does expat insurance cost?
There is no single standard price. Premiums depend on age, medical history, deductible, coverage area, benefit limits, optional U.S. coverage and the insurer selected. Brett provides personalized comparisons so applicants can review actual premiums and benefits before applying.
- Do I need health insurance in Mexico?
Private hospitals in Mexico commonly require a deposit, proof of coverage or a credit-card authorization before or during treatment. Without insurance or confirmed direct billing, patients may need to pay and seek reimbursement afterward.
Costs can include:
$1,000–$5,000 USD for a 1-night hospital stay
$10,000–$30,000+ USD for surgeries
Insurance gives you access to top-tier care without financial stress.
- Does this replace IMSS or public healthcare?
Not necessarily. IMSS is part of Mexico’s public healthcare system and has its own eligibility rules, facilities and coverage conditions. Some residents use IMSS, some choose private insurance, and others maintain both. Private insurance can provide access to participating private hospitals and specialists, subject to the policy’s network, deductible and coverage terms.
- What ages can apply?
Entry-age limits vary by insurer and plan. Some insurers accept new applicants up to age 74, while others have lower or higher limits. Renewal provisions also vary and remain subject to the policy terms and payment of premiums.
- Can I use this insurance outside Mexico?
Geographic coverage varies. Some plans cover Mexico only, while others provide broader international coverage or optional U.S. benefits.
- Does the insurance offer direct billing?
Some insurers can arrange direct billing with participating hospitals after authorization. Direct billing is not guaranteed in every facility or circumstance, and deductibles, coinsurance or deposits may still apply.
- What is the enrollment process?
Application and document submission are handled online. Timing varies: straightforward applications may be completed within several business days, while applications requiring medical records or additional underwriting can take longer.
- What ongoing support does Brett provide?
Brett remains available to assist with claims, renewals, policy changes, benefit questions and hospital coordination during normal support hours.
Important: This page provides general information and is not a guarantee of coverage, acceptance, benefits, direct billing or claim payment. Eligibility, exclusions, waiting periods, provider networks and benefits vary by insurer and policy. The policy documents control in all cases.
Brett LaMar is a U.S. licensed insurance broker based in Mexico.
Last reviewed: September 2026
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