Frequently Asked Questions

	This section answers the most common questions we receive

How dangerous is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is not as dangerous as, say, Miami. Our country is a peaceful oasis in Central America. Often referred to as the "Switzerland" of the Americas, Costa Rica has been a participatory democracy for over fifty years. It is know for its gentle people, beautiful countryside, breathtaking coasts and spectacular mountains, complete with active volcanoes.

Do I have to speak Spanish to come there and receive medical services?

Absolutely not. The staff of HTC is fully bilingual (some multi-lingual) and a significant number of the medical professionals are as well.

What about my health insurance company from the States? Will they pay?

Each company has a different policy. Check with your agent.

Is it safe to drink the water there?

CR probably has the best and most hygienic water supply of any Latin American country. Only in the most remote parts of the country do you need to consider drinking bottled water.

What happens if something goes wrong while I'm there?

If you're asking about a problem with medical treatments, the medical professionals with whom HTC works have the highest standards possible. Should there be a medical emergency, regardless of where you are in the country, HTC has access to surface and air ambulances (from helicopters to intercontinental jets) to get you to the best emergency facilities available. HTC will also act on your behalf as mediator between you and any medical service provider with which you are not fully satisfied.

What if I change my mind once I'm there?

Any health care consumer has the right to change his or her mind before (or even during) any medical procedure. If you are dissatisfied with the medical professional performing the procedure(s), HTC will arrange for you to choose another. If you choose to return home without receiving any medical services, that's OK too.

Will I need to bring or send my medical records?

HTC will arrange for your records to be sent from your treating physician in your home country and will arrange for the medical records here to be translated and returned to your physician.

How do I pay for the medical treatments and travel arrangements?

Payment arrangements are individual. Pre-payment for specific treatments and tourism services are generally requested. Payment by credit cards is usually acceptable, especially for travel related expenses, although some medical professionals prefer not to accept them. HTC can handle all the payment arrangements, if you so choose, and provide a final accounting in your native language, before you leave the country.

What happens if I'm not satisfied AFTER I've paid?

HTC will act as mediator between you and the medical/tourism professionals with whom you are not satisfied. Our responsibility is to see that the health tourist is completely satisfied with ALL services received in Costa Rica, and we take that responsibility very seriously.

What about recovery?

HTC will arrange for whatever you need for your recovery--from booking a special hotel to seeing that you get the proper foods delivered to your habitation. We will coordinate with your doctor here to insure that all important follow-up is done according to his or her recommendations. Our services are complete and individualized.