Felipe, over at The Zapata Tales, has some strong opinions about what he likes (and does not like) about Mexico.
Mexican medical care, he likes.
Me, too.
While I was prone on the gurney awaiting surgery, I had little to occupy my mind. So, I thought about what any red-blooded American thinks about under similar circumstances. What is this going to cost me?
I do not have health insurance. There is no need to go into the reasons I chose this course, other than to say I do not expect other people to pay for my food and housing, why should they pay for my medical bills?
If I had the same injury in Oregon, I would probably pay around 16 to 25 thousand dollars just for the surgery. Or so I guessed, based on my litigation experience.
Two days in the hospital would cost maybe an additional three grand. So, maybe $28,000. (My sources indicate my guess is within the margin of error.)
When I was getting ready to leave, my angel flew in with a credit card slip for my signature. I knew that Mexican medical charges are reasonable. I have had treatments during the last year down here.
So, imagine my surprise when I looked down at the credit slip to see -- $60,611.11!
It took me a moment to remember I was in Mexico. The bill was in pesos, not dollars.
In US dollars, that seemingly large bill dwindles to just under $4,500.
For the price of a cruise, I was treated as royalty for two days, had my bones photographed, and was given a reconstructed right ankle -- along with some rather stylish bandaging. All at free market prices.
80% less than the same care in The States.
If I had chosen a hospital that did not cater to upscale expatriates and upper middle class Mexicans, the bill would have been much less.
In truth, I would have preferred the cruise. I undoubtedly chose the wrong door while visiting Monty Hall.
Of course, I will get to do some of my own price comparisons when I return to Oregon in just over two weeks. That should be an interesting experience. I had best reload my credit card.
When the doctor released me, he asked me to see him in two weeks to have my dressings changed. I intend to do that at the start of next week.
I may then have a better idea how long I am going to be spending on crutches.
There must be another adventure waiting out there.
