Most people don’t move abroad thinking about hospitals.

They think about weather. Cost of living. Food. Lifestyle.
Healthcare usually comes later — often right after the first fever, twisted ankle, or “this doesn’t feel right” moment.

And that’s when something unexpected happens to expats in Colombia:

They’re shocked.
In a good way.

Because Colombia’s healthcare system doesn’t feel like what many foreigners expect from a “developing country.” In fact, for a lot of expats, it feels more accessible, more human, and far more affordable than what they left behind.

This is the real story of healthcare in Colombia — how it works, what it costs, EPS vs. private care, wait times, and what people actually experience once they’re living here.

Colombia has one of the highest-rated healthcare systems in Latin America and consistently ranks well globally for outcomes, doctor training, and patient satisfaction.

Doctors here are highly educated. Many train abroad. Hospitals are modern. Clinics are clean. Technology is up to date. And the system is built around access, not just profit.

Is it perfect? No.
Is it better than what many expats expect? Absolutely.

Healthcare in Colombia operates on two parallel tracks. Understanding this is the key to avoiding confusion — and frustration.

EPS (Entidad Promotora de Salud) is Colombia’s public healthcare system. It’s not “free,” but it is heavily subsidized and accessible.

Once enrolled, you’re covered for:

EPS is very affordable.

Most people pay:

For families, the value is enormous.

EPS is good — but it’s not fast.

If you’re patient and organized, EPS works well. If you expect instant service, you’ll feel frustrated.

This is where most expats’ opinions change dramatically.

Private healthcare in Colombia is:

You can often get same-day or next-day appointments.

Walk into a private ER, get treated, and leave without a financial panic attack.

A private ER visit that might cost thousands elsewhere can be $50–$200 USD in Colombia.

This is where people are truly stunned.

Many expats pay out of pocket for procedures because it’s still cheaper than insurance back home.

Expats often expect:

What they find instead:

Colombian doctors tend to:

It feels more human — and that’s something many expats didn’t realize they were missing.

This is where expectations matter.

Most expats end up using both systems:

It’s not either/or — it’s strategic.

Pharmacies are everywhere.

Many medications that require prescriptions elsewhere are available directly from the pharmacist. Prices are low, brands are good, and pharmacists are knowledgeable.

Monthly medication costs that might be $200+ in the U.S. can be $20–$40 USD here.

Some expats carry:

Private insurance plans in Colombia are affordable and offer:

But many expats discover they don’t need expensive international insurance once they understand local care options.

This is one of Colombia’s strongest points.

Parents consistently report feeling well-supported.

Talk to expats long enough and you’ll hear the same stories:

Healthcare becomes one of the unexpected reasons people stay.

Living here reframes how you think about healthcare.

It shows that:

Colombia isn’t perfect — paperwork exists, systems overlap, patience is required — but for many expats, healthcare becomes a relief instead of a fear.

And that alone changes how safe and confident you feel building a life here.