Seeking Medical Attention in Nicaragua

Medical care outside of Nicaragua’s capital city, Managua, is rather limited. While intermediate level medical care is available in Managua, only basic emergency medical services are available in the smaller towns and villages. Ambulances often only provide very basic first aid and transportation, and many medications and treatments are not available in the county. In addition, physicians and healthcare providers frequently do not speak English.

In most medical emergencies, patients are taken to a public hospital unless you can pay for a private hospital. Payment is typically done on a cash basis; however, some private hospitals will accept major credit cards for payment. One hospital in Nicaragua, Hospital Metropolitano in Managua, currently accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield for inpatient treatment. You should always contact the hospital in advance to confirm coverage before committing to services. It’s important to find out about current vaccinations you’ll need before your travels, but Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies are recommended for Nicaragua.