No doubt the most frequently asked questions we get on this Web site are 1) "whether Mexico is a safe place to visit", especially along the crime-ridden U.S. border, and 2) "...can Mexican medical services be trusted".
U.S. citizens are turning more and more to the Mexican border towns and their varied medical services as a way to fight the escalating costs of medical service in the States. But most want to know before they cross the border if they are taking their own lives in their hands and flirting with danger or mishap, or is it safe to visit and be medically treated in Mexico, resulting in a successful experience.
There are many answers to those two questions -- depending on who you ask. There are both good and bad stories that come from U.S. visitors who travel across the border for medical reasons. Some swear by the economy and proficiency of their experience. There others that feel as if they made a terrible mistake, for varied reasons.
As far as whether it is safe to cross over into border towns or not, we would generally say your experience should be a safe and enjoyable one. We personally prefer to frequent certain border towns over others. Matamoros and Juarez offer many cultural riches and historical treasures, while Progreso probably offers the safest and most convienent experience for the shopper. Both Nuevo Laredo and Reynosa have had their share of problems in recent years, and the local crime situation seems to be escalating, especially in Nuevo Laredo. That's not to say you can't have a safe and enjoyable visit to either one of the communities, but unsettling local politics and drug-related activities make it a bit questionable in our opinion, especially if you're already spooked about crossing the border. Nuevo Laredo is the worse of the two, and it saddens us as we remember the days when it was a wonderful community to visit with the streets full of commerce and laughter.
Much the same, however, could be said about parts of Houston and New Orleans for example, or just about any large metropolitan area where underworld activity and open crime threaten the safety of the innocent.
As far as the quality of medical services available in Mexico, especially in its border communities, you will find, again - just like in your hometown - an assortment of health care professionals, some more experienced or better trained than others. Can you trust medical services providers in Mexico? Yes - as long as that trust is placed in a qualified and reputable doctor, dentist or medical technician - just like in the USA.
Like in the States., there are many outstanding medical and dental schools in Mexico, especially in Mexico City and Monterrey. Young graduates are well versed in medical technology and educated in the latest treatments and medical research. A medical professional in Mexico shares the same level of respect and professional dedication to their professions as do their U.S. counterparts.
The key, therefore, is choosing the right professional, clinic or other medical service provider, and then exercising caution when crossing the border; using common sense and listening to sound advice.
Helping you accomplish this task is the purpose of this Web site. MORE
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