| Option | Typical monthly cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| EPS enrollment (public system) | $40–$80 (income-based) | Legal residents wanting baseline system access |
| Prepaid medicine (medicina prepagada) | $80–$200 | Faster access, higher-end private facilities |
| International health insurance | Varies widely by provider and coverage | Expats wanting coverage that travels with them |
EPS enrollment specifically
Available to legal residents (including those on Colombia's digital nomad or other long-term visas), EPS enrollment provides access to the broader public-system network covered in our public vs private explainer.
Prepaid medicine (medicina prepagada)
A Colombia-specific private coverage model offering faster access and higher-end facility access, often used alongside or instead of EPS by those who can afford it — the tier most aligned with the private facilities covered via colombiamedical.co.
International health insurance
Relevant for expats wanting coverage that extends beyond Colombia, or shorter-term visitors not eligible for EPS — typically the most expensive of the three options but the most portable.
The Takeaway
Your specific residency status and how long you plan to stay should drive this choice more than cost alone — EPS eligibility specifically depends on your visa status.