Health & Well-being

Health & Medical Hub

Hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and what to do if you get sick or injured in Cali.

Emergency Numbers

Service	Number
All Emergencies	123
Ambulance	132
Toxicology	1-800-422-4217

For full safety guide, see Cali 101

Critical Emergency

• Chest pain or unconsciousness
• Severe bleeding or trauma

ACTION: Call 123 or go to Imbanaco ER

Urgent but Stable

• High fever or food poisoning
• Broken bone (if walking)

ACTION: Take Uber to Clinic (Faster)

Top Hospitals

Centro Médico Imbanaco

Cra 38Bis #5B-2

English Speaking StaffInternational Insurance Accepted

Ranked among the best hospitals in Latin America. The go-to choice for expats and serious procedures.

Call 24/7

Fundación Valle del Lili

Av. Simón Bolívar #98-00

Complex SurgeryTrauma Center

Consistently ranked as the #1 hospital in Colombia. Extremely modern, but located further south.

Call 24/7

Clínica de Occidente

Cl. 18 Nte. #5-34

Versalles NeighborhoodOncology

Excellent option if you are staying in Granada or Peñón (North/West). Very reputable.

Call 24/7

Pharmacies & Basics

Trusted Chains

Droguería La Rebaja

Chain

Cruz Verde

Chain

Rappi (App)

Delivery

See Digital Nomad Guide for long-stay tips

Pro Tips

Generic names: Ask for "nombre genérico" (Acetaminofén vs Tylenol) to save 50%.
Home Delivery: Rappi delivers meds in <30 mins. Safer than walking at night.
Injections: Most pharmacies have a nurse for injections (~$2 USD).

What to do if...

Food Poisoning

1. Hydrate: Buy 'Electrolit' or 'Pedialyte' at any pharmacy (or Rappi). Coconut water is also great.

2. Meds: 'Enterogermina' (probiotics) helps restore gut flora. Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins.

3. Rest: Don't force it. Take 24h off. Calls usually pass quickly.

4. Red Flag: If you have a high fever or can't keep water down for 12h, go to the E.R.

Minor Injuries (Sprains, Cuts)

1. Pharmacies in Colombia can perform basic first aid (cleaning cuts, injections).

2. X-Rays: Go to a 'Clínica' ER. Wait times in private clinics are usually under 2 hours.

3. Recovery: Physiotherapy is very affordable in Cali (~$20-30 USD/session).

Prescription Refills

1. Bring the box: Pharmacists identify meds by active ingredient, not brand name.

2. No Script?: Many meds that are Rx-only in the US/EU are OTC in Colombia (antibiotics, inhalers, birth control).

3. Controlled Subst: Psych meds and strong painkillers DO require a local prescription.

Need specific medical help?

English speaking dentistDermatologist for acneTravel insurance accepted?Closest 24/7 clinic