How to Become an International Patient

If you're seeking care from outside the U.S., you'll find a suite of personalized services at UC San Diego Health International Patient Services to help you navigate international health care and travel to a foreign country.

If you are interested in becoming an international patient, please follow the steps outlined below.

1. Complete a Patient Intake Form
   Link to intake form here
2. Send Medical Records
   Once we receive your completed patient intake form, we will contact you with steps on how to send relevant medical records, including copies of any radiology scans and test results. Detailed information about your medical condition will expedite your inquiry and our ability to schedule you with the correct specialist(s).
3. Obtain Medical Acceptance
   A UC San Diego Health physician may review your medical history. If treatment is recommended, preliminary treatment options may be determined.
4. Obtain Financial Clearance
   You will need to provide either a deposit of estimated charges in advance or your insurance company must provide authorization approved by UC San Diego Health that guarantees payment. Insurance authorizations can only be accepted for consideration by insurance companies with verified contracts with UC San Diego Health.
5. Schedule an Appointment
   An international patient coordinator will help you schedule an appointment at a convenient time with the most appropriate UC San Diego Health physician. Your coordinator will help you complete all the necessary forms for appointment scheduling and registration. View a complete list of UC San Diego Health physicians.

Contact Us

From the moment you contact us, and throughout your stay, we are here to coordinate any medical, financial, or service-related needs or inquiries you have.

• Email: patientsintl@health.ucsd.edu
• Phone: 001-619-471-0234 (from outside the U.S.) or 619-471-0234 (from within the U.S.)
• If you are in Mexico / Latin America, you can contact Sara Askenazi Santerbas at saskenazi@health.ucsd.edu or 52-554-367-8158.
• If you are in the Middle East, you can contact Dr. Nada Suhail at nsuhail@health.ucsd.edu.
• Mailing address:
  International Services
  Hillcrest Medical Center 
  200 West Arbor Drive, # 8222
  San Diego, CA 92103-8222