Costa Rica: A Welcoming Haven for Veterans Seeking Quality Healthcare
Costa Rica has become a favored destination for veterans seeking a new place to call home, and it’s easy to see why. With a large and growing expatriate community—nearly ten percent of the population is made up of foreigners—this Central American gem offers a range of benefits that make it an ideal location for those who have served. From its temperate climate and stable democracy to its excellent healthcare options and low cost of living, Costa Rica is a country that appeals to veterans, expats, digital nomads, and retirees alike.
Access to Healthcare for Veterans in Costa Rica
One of the key advantages for American veterans living in Costa Rica is access to healthcare through the Foreign Medical Program (FMP). This program ensures that veterans who are service-connected or retired can receive the medical care they need while living abroad.
Veterans who have made Costa Rica their home often speak of the country as an “outdoor playground,” a place where adventure is just around the corner. Costa Rica consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world, a sentiment you’ll understand the moment you arrive. The locals, known as Ticos, are incredibly friendly and welcoming, embodying the national motto “Pura Vida” or “Pure Life,” which is as much a way of life as it is a greeting.
Costa Rica’s solid infrastructure—including reliable internet and clean water—along with its unique status as one of the few countries in the world without a military (it was abolished in 1948), further enhances its appeal. For veterans looking for camaraderie, groups like the Marine Corps League and the American Legion offer a supportive community.
- Marine Corps League
- Website: marinecorpsleaguecr.com
- Facebook: mcleaguecr
- Contact: Andrew “Andy” Pucek, (506) 8721-6636
- American Legion Costa Rica Post 10
- Website: www.alcr10.org
- Facebook: amlegioncr
- Contact: Chuck Turner, (506) 8355-4488
Navigating Medical Services for Veterans
For veterans with disabilities or service-connected conditions, TRICARE provides coverage, though it’s important to note that you may need to pay upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement with the overseas claims processor. Keeping detailed receipts of all medical expenses is crucial for this process.
TRICARE serves millions worldwide, including active-duty and retired service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families. However, it’s important to remember that to maintain eligibility for TRICARE For Life (TFL) at age 65 and beyond, veterans must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B—even if they live abroad, where Medicare coverage doesn’t apply. Failing to maintain enrollment in Medicare Part B will result in the loss of TRICARE benefits.
Veterans should also be prepared to pay out-of-pocket for medical services, as some hospitals and doctors in Costa Rica may choose not to accept TRICARE. Detailed receipts are essential for submitting claims, which can be done online through the TRICARE Overseas website: TRICARE Overseas Beneficiaries.
One of the standout medical facilities in Costa Rica is Clínica Bíblica, which offers a program specifically designed to meet the unique needs of military veterans. This program is tailored to provide comprehensive care that aligns with the requirements of veterans.
- Clínica Bíblica Veteran’s Care Program
- Location: Omega Medical Tower, 1st floor
- Phone: (506) 2522-1500 Ext: 6095/6097
- Mobile: (506) 8427-0776
- TRICARE and Billing Services: Jeanette Varela, jvarelains@hotmail.com
Important Meeting for Veterans in Costa Rica
For retired veterans living in Costa Rica, there is an important meeting scheduled on June 28th from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Hospital Clínica Bíblica San José auditorium, 4th floor. This gathering will address the challenges veterans face in using their VA insurance (FMP) outside of the U.S., as well as issues related to TRICARE insurance for retired veterans.
The meeting will include discussions on the difficulties many veterans encounter due to the administration of these programs by the VA office in the U.S., which has led to some healthcare providers in Costa Rica refusing to accept the insurance. In some cases, even when bills are submitted, they remain unpaid.
US Combat Veteran Esteban Blis, President and founder of the YOU SERVED WE CARE FOUNDATION, along with Dr. Joseph Caruso, Vice President of the foundation, will be speaking at the meeting. This non-profit organization, recommended by the Veterans Administration, has been instrumental in addressing the needs of veterans living outside the U.S. The foundation’s efforts span over 18 countries, and their goal is to improve the FMP program for veterans abroad.
Veterans attending the meeting will have the opportunity to voice their concerns and learn about the ongoing efforts to resolve these issues. The foundation is committed to supporting veterans and ensuring that their rights are upheld after their years of service.
Veterans in Costa Rica are not alone—there is a community and support system in place, fighting to ensure that those who served are able to access the benefits they have earned.
