For many US and Canadian expats and seasonal residents living in Mexico, healthcare coverage can be confusing—especially when it comes to Medicare and whether it applies outside the United States.
Recently, comments suggested that Medicare coverage abroad is extremely limited. That’s partially true—but here’s the full story: with the right Medicare Advantage plan and proper registration, you can receive emergency and urgent care in Mexico—and Lakeside Medical Group makes it simple and stress-free.
Medicare 101: Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
Here’s the key distinction:
- Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
- Government-run program.
- Almost no coverage abroad except in extremely rare circumstances or through limited Medigap plans, which may cover up to $50,000 lifetime maximum but only for the first 60 days of travel.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Private insurance plans authorized by Medicare.
- There are over 450 different Advantage plans, each with different coverage rules.
- Many do offer emergency and urgent care abroad with no time limit on days away from your US residence.
In short, coverage abroad is plan-specific. That’s where Lakeside Medical Group comes in—to verify your plan and ensure you’re fully protected before you ever need care.
How Lakeside Medical Group Protects Expats
For 15 years, Lakeside Medical Group (LMG) has provided emergency and urgent care coverage for US and Canadian expats in Mexico, and here’s what sets them apart:
- FREE Registration: You must be registered with LMG before treatment to ensure your plan qualifies.
- No Deductibles, No Copays, No Coinsurance: Even if your Medicare Advantage or US insurance plan has them, LMG covers these costs within its network.
- Star Medica Hospital Partnership: LMG has a Managed Care Agreement with Star Medica Hospital in Mérida, plus 27 other hospitals across Mexico in its network.
- Coverage Beyond Medicare: LMG also accepts several Canadian insurance plans and some US private health insurance plans in addition to Medicare Advantage.
- Nominal Copayments Only:
- $100 pesos for urgent care office visits.
- Maximum of $3,000 pesos for inpatient hospital stays.
- Plan Verification: Before enrollment, LMG requests a Confirmation of Benefits from your Medicare Advantage plan so there are no surprises.
Why Expats Choose LMG
Many expats have already joined LMG’s managed health care program for peace of mind. With coverage available in over 27 cities across Mexico, members know they’ll have access to emergency and urgent care when needed—without the financial stress.
Robert Ash from LMG personally assists new members by:
- Explaining how the program works.
- Answering all questions about coverage.
- Checking compatibility with Medicare Advantage, travel insurance, and expat health plans.
Applications for FREE enrollment are still being accepted, giving expats the chance to access virtually free emergency and urgent care coverage throughout Mexico.
How to Register
To find out if your plan qualifies or to start your free enrollment:
- Email: ash@lakemedicalgroup.com
- Website: Lakeside Medical Group
- Phone/WhatsApp: +52 55 4487 3192
Don’t wait until an emergency happens—registering in advance is the key to receiving coverage.
The Bottom Line
- Original Medicare: Almost no coverage outside the US.
- Medicare Advantage: Many plans offer emergency and urgent care abroad—but only if you have the right plan and register properly.
- Lakeside Medical Group: Verifies your plan, registers you for free, eliminates deductibles and coinsurance, and gives you access to top hospitals across Mexico.
With Lakeside Medical Group as your partner, you can enjoy your time in Mexico knowing that your emergency and urgent care needs are covered—without surprise bills or gaps in protection.
