Top 20 Hospitals in Costa Rica

1. Hospital Clínica Bíblica

Hospital Clínica Bíblica is one of Costa Rica's most prestigious private hospitals, established in 1929. It offers state-of-the-art medical technology and is internationally accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI). The hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services with a focus on patient safety and quality care.

The hospital specializes in cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. It features modern operating rooms, intensive care units, and a 24/7 emergency service. Popular treatments include cardiac surgeries, cancer treatments using advanced radiation therapy, and joint replacement surgeries. Medical tourists frequently choose this hospital for its international standards and bilingual staff.

2. CIMA Hospital Escazú

CIMA Hospital in Escazú is part of the renowned American international hospital network. It's known for its luxurious facilities and high-quality medical care that meets U.S. standards. The hospital attracts many medical tourists, especially from North America, due to its English-speaking staff and international accreditation.

CIMA specializes in bariatric surgery, cosmetic surgery, dental implants, and fertility treatments. The hospital features advanced diagnostic imaging, a cardiac catheterization lab, and a women's health center. Popular treatments include gastric sleeve surgery, IVF procedures, and full-mouth dental reconstructions. Their oncology department offers cutting-edge cancer treatments including targeted therapy.

3. Hospital La Católica

Hospital La Católica is a leading private hospital in San José known for its excellent medical staff and modern facilities. Established in 1974, it has grown to become one of the most trusted healthcare institutions in Costa Rica. The hospital combines advanced technology with personalized patient care.

Specializations include neurosurgery, cardiology, and maternity services. The hospital boasts a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, advanced neurosurgical operating rooms, and a comprehensive stroke center. Popular treatments include minimally invasive spine surgeries, angioplasty, and high-risk pregnancy care. The hospital is also known for its excellent rehabilitation services post-surgical procedures.

4. Hospital Metropolitano

Hospital Metropolitano is a modern private hospital located in the heart of San José. It's recognized for its innovative approach to healthcare and patient-centered services. The hospital features smart-room technology that allows patients to control their environment and access entertainment during their stay.

The hospital specializes in robotic surgery, internal medicine, and preventive healthcare. It houses one of the most advanced robotic surgery systems in Central America. Popular treatments include prostatectomies using the Da Vinci system, comprehensive executive health check-ups, and metabolic surgery for diabetes. The hospital also has a renowned center for sleep disorders and respiratory diseases.

5. Hospital San Juan de Dios

Hospital San Juan de Dios is the largest public hospital in Costa Rica and a national reference center for complex medical cases. Founded in 1845, it has a long tradition of serving the Costa Rican population. While it's a public institution, it maintains high standards in several specialty areas.

The hospital is renowned for its trauma center, pediatric specialties, and infectious disease department. It operates the national burn unit and has specialized centers for HIV/AIDS treatment. Popular treatments include pediatric oncology care, trauma surgeries, and treatment for tropical diseases. The hospital also serves as a teaching center for the University of Costa Rica's medical school.

6. Hospital México

Hospital México is one of Costa Rica's most important public hospitals and a national reference center for cardiology and neurology. Part of the CCSS (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social) system, it provides specialized care to patients from across the country. The hospital is known for its research and teaching programs.

Specializations include cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, and organ transplants. The hospital houses the national cardiology institute and performs the majority of heart surgeries in the country. Popular treatments include coronary bypass surgeries, deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease, and kidney transplants. The hospital also has a renowned stroke unit with 24/7 thrombolysis capability.

7. Hospital Calderón Guardia

Hospital Calderón Guardia is another major public hospital in San José, named after a former Costa Rican president. It serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Costa Rica and is known for its excellent residency programs. The hospital provides comprehensive care across multiple specialties.

The hospital specializes in internal medicine, geriatrics, and rheumatology. It features a modern oncology center and one of the country's best endocrinology departments. Popular treatments include chemotherapy protocols, management of autoimmune diseases, and diabetes care. The hospital also has a specialized unit for eating disorders and metabolic diseases.

8. Hospital Nacional de Niños

Hospital Nacional de Niños is Costa Rica's premier pediatric hospital and the national reference center for all complex childhood conditions. Established in 1964, it has been a pioneer in pediatric care in Central America. The hospital combines clinical care with extensive research and teaching activities.

Specializations include pediatric oncology, cardiology, and neurosurgery. The hospital houses Central America's only pediatric bone marrow transplant unit. Popular treatments include childhood leukemia protocols, congenital heart defect corrections, and treatment for rare genetic disorders. The hospital also has excellent rehabilitation services for children with disabilities.

9. Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia

This public hospital (not to be confused with the similarly named Calderón Guardia Hospital) is located in San José and serves a large population in the central valley. It's known for its efficient management within the public healthcare system and quality specialty services.

The hospital specializes in gastroenterology, pulmonology, and urology. It features modern endoscopy suites and a comprehensive digestive diseases center. Popular treatments include colon cancer screenings, lithotripsy for kidney stones, and treatment for chronic respiratory conditions. The hospital also has a well-regarded pain management clinic.

10. Hospital San Vicente de Paúl

Located in Heredia, Hospital San Vicente de Paúl is one of the most important regional hospitals in Costa Rica's central valley. It serves the Heredia province population and has developed several specialty centers of excellence. The hospital combines public healthcare accessibility with quality services.

Specializations include orthopedics, ophthalmology, and maternity care. The hospital has a modern orthopedic surgery center and one of the country's busiest maternity wards. Popular treatments include knee and hip replacements, cataract surgeries, and high-risk pregnancy management. The hospital also offers comprehensive geriatric care services.

11. Hospital Max Peralta

Located in Cartago, Hospital Max Peralta is the main regional hospital for Costa Rica's central valley eastern region. It serves a large population and has developed several specialty services. The hospital is known for its efficient management and community-oriented approach.

The hospital specializes in general surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine. It features a modern trauma center and one of the country's best-equipped public hospital laboratories. Popular treatments include appendectomies, hernia repairs, and treatment for acute pediatric conditions. The hospital also has a well-regarded diabetes education program.

12. Hospital Tony Facio Castro

Hospital Tony Facio Castro is the main regional hospital in Limón province, serving Costa Rica's Caribbean coast population. It's known for its tropical medicine expertise and multicultural staff. The hospital plays a crucial role in serving remote communities in the region.

Specializations include tropical diseases, dermatology, and maternal-child health. The hospital has expertise in treating dengue, malaria, and other tropical illnesses. Popular treatments include management of vector-borne diseases, dermatological conditions common in tropical climates, and prenatal care for high-risk pregnancies. The hospital also runs community health programs in indigenous territories.

13. Hospital Monseñor Sanabria

Located in Puntarenas, Hospital Monseñor Sanabria serves the Pacific coast population and is known for its geriatric and rehabilitation services. The hospital has adapted to serve both urban and rural populations in the region. It's particularly recognized for its community health programs.

The hospital specializes in geriatrics, physical rehabilitation, and chronic disease management. It features a modern rehabilitation center with aquatic therapy facilities. Popular treatments include stroke rehabilitation, management of chronic degenerative diseases, and palliative care services. The hospital also has a well-regarded wound care clinic for diabetic patients.

14. Hospital William Allen Taylor

Located in Turrialba, this regional hospital serves the rural populations of Cartago province. It's known for its personalized care and family medicine approach. The hospital plays an important role in bringing specialized care to rural communities.

Specializations include family medicine, pediatrics, and minor surgery. The hospital provides comprehensive primary care with some specialty consultations. Popular treatments include routine pediatric care, minor surgical procedures, and management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. The hospital also runs mobile clinics to serve remote areas.

15. Hospital de San Carlos

Located in Ciudad Quesada, Hospital de San Carlos serves the large northern zone of Costa Rica. It's known for its trauma services and emergency care, given the region's tourism and agricultural activities. The hospital has modernized significantly in recent years.

The hospital specializes in emergency medicine, orthopedics, and obstetrics. It features a 24/7 emergency department equipped to handle trauma cases. Popular treatments include fracture management, emergency obstetric care, and treatment of agricultural injuries. The hospital also has a hyperbaric chamber for treatment of diving-related injuries from nearby tourist areas.

16. Hospital de Alajuela

Hospital de Alajuela is the main regional hospital for Costa Rica's second largest city and surrounding areas. It provides a wide range of specialty services and serves as a teaching hospital. The hospital is known for its efficient management and patient satisfaction.

Specializations include cardiology, neurology, and general surgery. The hospital features a modern catheterization lab and comprehensive diagnostic services. Popular treatments include pacemaker implants, management of cerebrovascular diseases, and laparoscopic surgeries. The hospital also has a well-regarded pain management clinic.

17. Hospital Escalante Pradilla

Located in Pérez Zeledón, this regional hospital serves the large southern zone of Costa Rica. It's known for its adaptability in serving both urban and remote rural populations. The hospital has developed particular expertise in certain areas despite its regional status.

The hospital specializes in emergency medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics. It features a neonatal intensive care unit and comprehensive emergency services. Popular treatments include emergency obstetric care, pediatric emergencies, and trauma management. The hospital also runs community health programs in indigenous territories of the Brunca region.

18. Hospital de Grecia

Hospital de Grecia serves the western central valley population and is known for its community-oriented approach. The hospital has earned recognition for its efficient management within the public healthcare system. It provides both primary and specialized care.

Specializations include family medicine, chronic disease management, and minor surgery. The hospital features a modern outpatient surgery center and comprehensive primary care services. Popular treatments include diabetes management, hypertension control, and minor surgical procedures. The hospital also has a well-regarded mental health program.

19. Hospital de Nicoya

Serving the Nicoya peninsula, this hospital is crucial for providing healthcare in one of Costa Rica's Blue Zones known for longevity. The hospital has adapted its services to the region's demographic characteristics. It's known for its geriatric and preventive medicine programs.

The hospital specializes in geriatrics, preventive medicine, and chronic disease management. It features a comprehensive geriatric assessment unit and wellness programs. Popular treatments include management of age-related conditions, preventive health screenings, and lifestyle medicine programs. The hospital also researches factors contributing to the region's exceptional longevity.

20. Hospital de Liberia

As the main hospital for Guanacaste province, Hospital de Liberia serves a large area including many tourist destinations. The hospital has modernized significantly to meet the needs of both local populations and visitors. It's known for its trauma and emergency services.

Specializations include emergency medicine, trauma care, and infectious diseases. The hospital features a 24/7 emergency department equipped for trauma cases. Popular treatments include management of tourist-related injuries, treatment of tropical diseases, and emergency obstetric care. The hospital also plays a key role in public health surveillance in the region.