When ‘what if’ turns into ‘what is’

Published September 1, 2023

BY ALFREDO LANIER

AN EMERGENCY TESTED OUR MEDICAL PLANS

Given the group’s demographics, it’s not surprising that health care, along with finances, rank high on the list of preoccupations among San Miguel’s expats, as they realize they are on the last lap around the racetrack. Some planning is in order. At this stage, eightieth birthdays call for special celebration; ninetieth birthdays, well, fireworks and a mariachi.

Most churches have volunteer groups to help congregants confront health care challenges. During the Covid pandemic the local Unitarian group organized a task force to provide information and guidance. Prayers of “joys and concerns” are part of most Sunday services even though, alas, concerns usually outnumber joys and may include an occasional R.I.P.

Not to make light of those gestures, however: Emails, phone calls and hospital visits are immensely comforting to those battling illnesses, accidents or other adversities. They make you feel grateful to live in a close-knit community like San Miguel.

Everyone seems to have their own health care plan. Some people make regular “medical visits” to their home cities and doctors, a ritual not unlike bringing an old car in for routine maintenance and maybe check any strange rattles. At the height of the Covid pandemic quite a few expats flew home to get vaccinated when the latest shots were not available in Mexico fast enough. People afflicted with chronic illnesses might return to the U.S. permanently. Then there are resolute expats who’ve planted their flag in Mexico, even become naturalized citizens, and vow to pursue their fortunes here and rely on the local medical system or insurance plans.

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