Costa Rica’s Medical Tourism On The Rise

Costa Rica Medical Tourism RisingCosta Rica has become the first choice for Americans, Canadians and Europeans seeking quality and affordable medical treatment, or what is known as medical tourism and wellness.

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica.  According to Mark Sydney of Americana WellcareCR,  between 150,000 and 200,000 foreigners could be traveling to Costa Rica in 2011 for medical procedures.

It’s hard to give an exact figure, but based on statistics from the middle of this decade (150,000 in 2006), Costa Rica might expect almost 200,000 medical tourists this year, said Sydney, whose company, Americana WellcareCR based in San José, Costa Rica, brings people there for medical treatment.

What draws most medical tourists to Costa Rica is the low cost of medical procedures compared to their countries; the high quality of medical personnel and medical services; and the speed at which the required medical treatment can be obtained.

Cosmetic surgery and dental treatment, not necessarily in that order, are still the most popular treatment here, says Sydney. But more and more people are coming to Costa Rica for orthopedic and bariatric surgery because of the cost and the benefits of some of the best recovery centers in the world, where a patient’s post-op recovery is monitored 24/7 in an eco environment with trained professionals.

American Football is Alive in Costa Rica – Invited to Football World Cup in Mexico City, 2012

Back in April, 2009 we wrote about how Costa Rica was forming the Costa Rica Federation of American Football (FCFA) -  since then, the game is becoming more popular with its 3rd season. For more info, contact Cody Gear at 321-218-9209 or via email at codygear (at) codylgearandassociates dot com.

Costa Rica has also been invited to the World Cup of American Football to be held in  Mexico City July 13-20th, 2012

American football is alive and well in Costa Rica. This year the league completed its third year.  The season which went from February to June culminated in the third championship being won by the Santa Ana Bulldogs. This is the second year that the Bulldogs have won the championship.

Many don’t know that a league exist here in Costa Rica much less that it has enjoyed success and growth over the past three years. The teams are predominantly comprised of Costa Ricans but there are many expats that participate as well. The Costa Ricans are learning the game and each year show steady improvement. The league is fortunate to have a number of qualified coaches but we are always looking for new blood.

Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean – A Pirates Treasure

Costa Rica's Southern Caribbean coast

In the 1600s pirates combed Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast in search of Indian gold and trading ship’s merchandise. However their greatest find is still undiscovered by many today. Its enchanting, uncrowded beaches, distinctive climate and charming, carefree culture make Costa Rica’s south Caribbean a true treasure yet to be known.

For nature lovers, Costa Rica’s Caribbean holds a treasure trove of possibilities. Not only can you swim, snorkel and dive in the crystal clear blue waters and walk for miles on virtually deserted beaches; you can also hike deep into the jungle, climbing to breathtaking mountain vistas. Among the areas prized attractions, The Jaguar Wild Animal Rescue Center is a real gem. Here you can see and learn about the diverse and fascinating Costa Rica wildlife. You can even go into the monkey house and play with baby monkeys.

The jungle vegetation provides a wealth of useful plants. On a medicinal plant tour with local guide Junior Palmer,  you’ll smell the ylang ylang flower, used to make Chanel Number 5.  Ginger, cilantro, vanilla and much more grow wild in the rain forest.

Process Serving in Costa Rica – Subpoenas & Summons

Process Serving in Costa RicaI know that there are many questions about serving process here in Costa Rica. This blog is not intended to be legal advice nor is it a legal opinion. However, I think a review of the procedure for serving process in the States would shed light on the problems encountered here in Costa Rica serving process. In the United  States we are accustomed to paying anywhere between $50 to $100 to have process served. In Costa Rica that cost is going to be a lot higher.

Anyone over the age of 18 can serve subpoenas, but a summons requires service by a deputy sheriff or other person authorized by law. Almost every state has similar laws regarding the service of process. Most mirror the Federal Rules.

The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure is an example of the rules in the majority of the states. From reading the rules one can see there are very specific rules as to who can serve process. Although the rule provides for appointment of a person who has no interest in the case by the Court of Competent Jurisdiction, that does not apply in Costa Rica because the Courts in the United States have no jurisdiction here.