HI Chris! Kamusta? I hope you're doing well. I agree with you. Most of the time, especially in big cities like Manila or Cebu, Davao, the medical establishments are better than a lot of the medical establishments here in the States. When we were there in Oct, my FIL broke his eye glasses. We went to a local Optometrist & Ophthalmologist office in Mandaluyong. Because my FIL wasn't a patient they had to do the whole examination to make sure he''ll be receiving the correct glasses. We walked in, his eyes were examined, they did the glasses & lenses there at the site and within 1 hour, he got brand new glasses. The beauty was, we only paid $31 for the exam & the brand new glasses. He's still wearing them and he loves his new glasses. We're still going through the process of moving there - the plan is to be there by Christmas 2025. :) Ingat lagi at God bless.
Hi Jessica, Kamusta! I’m doing well, thank you, and I hope you are too. I completely agree with you-there are definitely aspects of the medical system here, especially in cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, that are so efficient and affordable compared to what we’re used to in the States. Your story about your FIL’s glasses is such a great example. To walk in, get a full eye exam, and leave with new glasses in just an hour for $31? That’s practically unheard of back home! It’s one of those things that really makes you appreciate how convenient and accessible certain services are here. That’s so exciting that you’re planning to make the move by Christmas 2025! It’s a big transition, but it sounds like you’re well on your way. I hope everything goes smoothly as you prepare for the move. Ingat din kayo, and God bless-thanks for being such a loyal supporter of the channel. :) Cheers, Chris
Hi Chris, what a great medical tip including the pharmacy for your drugs. Once they see this content, they should sponsor you to say the least!! Have a good day bud! 👍👍👍
Still loving your videos Chris. Just watched your video on your Leyte apartment as well. I am a small town person in the US so I am positive I will gravitate towards smaller towns in the philippines as well. It is very helpful for me when you show internet speeds, costs, etc. and i greatly appreciate it. I am very jealous of the life you have created for yourself in the Philippines my friend. Not in a bad way - I am not interested in destroying your happiness. I am just hoping I can create a similar situation for myself once i completely retire later this year. I really enjoy the energy/happiness you project since I also tend to be a glass half-full person. Looking forward to sharing more of your adventures in the future. Once again, thanks so much for the videos.
Hey Matt, Really appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment! Sounds like the smaller towns in the Philippines will be a great fit for you, especially if you already prefer that vibe in the U.S. I’m glad the info on internet speeds and costs is helpful-definitely important things to consider when making the move. And man, I love that mindset! No doubt you’ll be able to create a setup that works for you once you fully retire. The Philippines has so much to offer if you go in with the right perspective. Wishing you all the best with the transition, and I hope it all comes together smoothly for you. Looking forward to having you along for more of the adventures-thanks again for the support! Chris
Wow that's amazing,,broke my back here in Canada and after my initial hospital stay trying to see a doctor for follow up has been a nightmare,,sometimes waiting more than 12 hours in emergency to see a doc just to be able to renew a prescription,,ridiculously,,can't wait to get better and move home to the Philippines 🇵🇭,,thanks for your video,,I've forgotten how wonderful it is there
Thanks for sharing your story. That sounds like such a frustrating experience-waiting 12 hours just to see a doctor is beyond ridiculous. I’m sorry you’ve had to go through that, but it’s great to hear you’re looking forward to moving back to the Philippines. There really is something so special about being here. Wishing you a smooth recovery, and thanks so much for watching the video!
Enjoy your videos. My wife and I are planning on coming to the Philippines. I got really broken up in a car wreck and broke my back in two different places, left femer broken in half, left knee and ankle broke, my right knee was really broken up and just had a total knee replacement. I also broke both arms and right wrist. I'm 51 years old now. This all happened in a bad car wreck in 2020. So, to say the leastI havealot of chronicpain. I was just curious as to if I would be able to find a good Dr that would help me with pain management. I know a lot of places here in America have really cut out writing pain medication because of people misusing it. Any info would be greatly appreciated. We really do want to come to the Philippines to live.
Thank you for watching the videos, and I’m so sorry to hear about everything you’ve been through. It sounds like you’ve faced some incredibly tough challenges, and I can understand why pain management would be a major concern when considering a move to the Philippines. I would definitely recommend investigating this thoroughly before making the move. Pain management can vary widely depending on the doctor and the region here. While you can find skilled and compassionate doctors, the approach to prescribing pain medication may be more conservative than what you’re used to in the U.S., especially with regulations around controlled substances. I’d suggest reaching out to specific doctors or hospitals in larger cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao to discuss your needs ahead of time. Hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila or Chong Hua in Cebu have reputable specialists who may be able to guide you. Pain management clinics aren’t as common here, but some larger hospitals do have departments that could meet your needs. It’s great that you and your wife are considering the move, and with some planning, I hope it works out for you. Wishing you all the best and hoping for a smooth transition if you decide to make the move! Cheers, Chris
Hey Kevin, you’re absolutely right-limited locations are definitely one of the disadvantages of Maxicare. If you’re looking for coverage across more areas, PhilHealth might be a better option to consider. It’s not perfect, but it’s more widely available throughout the Philippines, including in Bohol. Hope that helps!
Learned about your channel from Chad's. My plan is to arrive @CEB, first night at 38 Park Ave. then get a 1 year lease, maybe at Marco Polo Towers. This way I can stay in one place for a while to get situated, then get all my visa, driver's license and medical together. My issue is ophthalmic care. Thanks for the vid.
Thanks for checking out the channel, and I’m glad you found me through Chad’s! Both condos are great choices. 38 Park Ave is definitely super convenient being right in IT Park-you’ll have everything you need close by. Marco Polo Towers is also a solid option, especially if you’re looking for a quieter vibe with a bit more space. Your plan sounds great-having a base for a year will definitely make getting everything sorted, like visas, driver’s license, and medical care, much easier. For ophthalmic care, you’ll find some good options in Cebu, especially at larger facilities like Chong Hua or Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital. Let me know how it all goes, and good luck with the move!
Was in hospital in Da Nang for three days. Including all lab tests, private nurses, all doctor visits, radiology tests, medications, food, private nurse $356. I have doctors in BKK, Da Nang, Ho Chi Min, BGC, etc preemptively. All gave me their personal cell phones and told be to text them anytime. SE Asia is not MANAGED CARE like in US. I have direct health care that is far superior to anything in the US. I forgot my meds also and was able to just go to pharmacies in SE Asia and get refill without Dr Visit. Great video
Hey, thanks for watching and for sharing your experience! It’s amazing to hear how efficient and accessible healthcare can be in SE Asia. I completely agree-having direct access to healthcare and being able to handle things quickly at the pharmacy is a huge advantage. It really highlights the differences compared to the managed care system in the US. Glad to know you’ve had such positive experiences here. Take care, and thanks again!
@@CarefreeChris To me that's a confirmation that it's effective. I have been taking it with my TRT for years, no complications whatsoever. Thanks for all your vids.
Hope all is well brother!! You can get the daily form from Mark Cubans cost plus drugs for like $20 for 90 days. It’s so cheap here in the states, so might be better shipping it over there. Amazon pharmacy has it too, so even if it’s slightly more expensive the free shipping will more than make up for it. The telemed docs are like phone doc in a box, so they can send the script for like a $29 televisit from doctronic, or various others. That script would save you a lot each year doing it that way.
Hey brother, thanks for the info! That’s a great setup for folks in the States, but my options are pretty limited here online. Unfortunately, things like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs or Amazon Pharmacy aren’t available for me, so I have to rely on what I can get locally. Appreciate you sharing though-hope all is well with you too!
my experience with meds in the Phils was similar. efficient and inexpensive, though not as quick as your visit! I think the other pharmacy you meant was Watsons.. 😃
When you say Mercury is the most "cost effective", does that mean cheapest? And do you know if prices are standard country-wide or is it soecific to location? I was wondering about this just yesterday. Great vid, thanks!
I did a little more digging and found the following... When I mentioned that Mercury Drug is the most “cost-effective,” I was referring to its affordability based on personal experiences and word-of-mouth recommendations. However, pricing can vary between different pharmacy chains in the Philippines, such as Mercury Drug, Rose Pharmacy, and Watsons. According to discussions among consumers, some have found that Mercury Drug offers medications at lower prices compared to Watsons, which also focuses on cosmetics and skincare products. For example, one user noted that a specific medication was priced at ₱12 per tablet at Mercury Drug, while the same was almost ₱18 at Watsons.  Additionally, a comparison between Mercury Drug and Rose Pharmacy indicated that Rose Pharmacy might offer certain medications at lower prices. In one instance, a customer found a significant price difference for a particular medicine, favoring Rose Pharmacy.  It’s important to note that prices can vary not only between chains but also by location. Factors such as regional operating costs and local competition can influence pricing. Therefore, it’s advisable to compare prices at different pharmacies in your area to ensure you’re getting the best deal. In summary, while Mercury Drug is often considered cost-effective, it’s beneficial to check with multiple pharmacies, including Rose Pharmacy and Watsons, as prices can differ based on the specific medication and location.
healthcare here in CA is bad, we have to wait a month to see a doctor, lab work results take weeks & sometimes you don't see a real doctor, just a nurse practitioner
Yeah, I hear that a lot about healthcare in CA. The wait times are insane, and the fact that you might not even see a real doctor just makes it worse. It’s crazy how long lab results take too-definitely a frustrating system to deal with!
Thanks for sharing your perspective, brother. The point I was making is that here in the Philippines, you can walk in and see a doctor within minutes just by showing up, which is unheard of in the US. I totally get that prescriptions can be renewed quickly through Walgreens back home, but getting an actual appointment with a doctor usually takes at least a week or two there. It’s a different system for sure!
In Australia, most people dont have to make an appointment for doctor unless you want to attend a popular medical centre in the shopping Mall then you need an appointment. Secondly, a few years ago i caugh cold flu in Manila hotel air conditioning, I went to a doctor, they gave me 3-4 different medication. After 5 days still not recover and i could not talk either. I went to Mercury Phamarcy , they recommend a cough medication still doesnt work. then i return back to Australia Cold Flu and cough happen in every country and very easy to cure. One of the pinoy tourist got a flu in thailand , i gave him 1 tablet from Australia. within 1 hour, no more cough, no more running nose, no more saliva etc.within 12 hours , he back in action. He could not believe it , he want to buy from me because he travel all year.
Thanks for sharing your experience-it’s interesting to hear how things work in Australia with walk-in doctor visits, especially compared to needing appointments in some places. I can understand your frustration with dealing with a flu in Manila and struggling to find effective medication. It’s amazing how quickly the medication you had from Australia worked for that Pinoy tourist! Sometimes the formulations or dosages of medications can vary a lot between countries, which can make a huge difference in how effective they are. It sounds like you’ve got a good system with the meds you bring from Australia-definitely helpful when you’re traveling or helping others while on the road. Thanks again for your insight!
Where I live in the Virginia If you need to change your primary care doctor due to incompetence , the wait for a new patient appointment is 1-5 months minimum. The US death care system is an absolute disgrace overall.
hanks for sharing your experience, and I completely understand your frustration. The long wait times and challenges with the healthcare system in the U.S. can be really discouraging. I appreciate you watching and engaging-take care, and all the best to you!
For established prescription renewals in the US, you don't even have to drive to a doctor's office. You can phone the doctor's office and a nurse can speak with your doctor and issue the prescription to Walgreens or Rite Aid electronically. I know. I am the Philippine vlogger exaggeration police. lol
Thanks for sharing your perspective, brother. The point I was making is that here in the Philippines, you can walk in and see a doctor within minutes just by showing up, which is unheard of in the US. I totally get that prescriptions can be renewed quickly through Walgreens back home, but getting an actual appointment with a doctor usually takes at least a week or two there. It’s a different system for sure!
@@CarefreeChris - Fair enough, but the speed at which you see a Maxicare doctor can vary greatly in the Philippines. I am not sure how many locations you ran your speed test on (one?), but the IT Park location routinely has a line of 20 people waiting in the queue on any given day as its norm.
For anything major like the examples you mentioned-hernia, broken bones, heart bypass surgery, or anything else serious-I’d definitely head to St. Luke’s in Manila or even fly to KL or Thailand. They have excellent facilities and specialists for those kinds of procedures. For smaller, day-to-day issues, though, I’ve found the care here in the provinces to be pretty convenient.
Comparing Philippines prices to American prices is a huge mistake. It’s better to compare Philippines prices to neighbouring countries such as Vietnam or Thailand. You’ll quickly realize the Philippines is overpriced (and low-quality) for things like meals, rent, dental, or medical care. $43 for that shoe-box hotel is extremely overpriced. If I was living in the Philippines and needed some mediocre medical procedure or dental procedures… I would 100% jump on a plane to Bangkok Thailand for top notch care at a reasonable price . I would never go to a Philippines medical facility. I can’t believe you spent $300 on two boxes of Cialus. It’s only $1 a tablet for legit genuine pharmacy brands in neighbouring Asian countries. About 6X less than what you spent. Things look great to some guy watching this from America that has never been to Asia. But from a guy that has lived in multiple Asian countries, in my opinion be cautious about the Philippines. The rent is really high and the quality of everything isn’t justified in a photo or video. When I left the Philippines my life improved 2X and my budget was cut in half. Stay open minded. Don’t get tunnel vision.
Thanks for your input-I appreciate the perspective. Just to clarify, I’m comparing the Philippines to the U.S., as that’s where I lived before moving here. I understand there’s a strong medical tourism market in Thailand and KL, and I do plan to partake in that at some point (KL is on my list), but since I live in the Philippines, I rely on the local medical facilities for everyday stuff. For anything major, like surgeries or specialized procedures, I’d head to St. Luke’s in Manila or fly to Thailand or KL for top-notch care. That said, for routine issues, the convenience here is hard to beat-I’ve been able to see doctors quickly, which is unheard of in the U.S., and that’s been a big plus for me. I totally get your point about costs and quality across different Asian countries. Everyone’s experience is different, and while I’m enjoying my time here, I’ll definitely stay open-minded and keep exploring options. Thanks for sharing!
@ everyone thinks the Philippines is so affordable compared to their home Western country. Then when they arrive in PH it’s a harsh reality to learn that neighboring Asian countries with better infrastructure are sometimes half the cost of the Philippines. Less headache. More money. Healthier food, etc.
I understand where you’re coming from, and for major or complex procedures, I agree that it’s wise to be cautious. That said, for smaller, day-to-day medical needs, I’ve found the care here to be quick, accessible, and affordable. It really depends on the situation and the facilities you choose.
Healthcare is horrible in Philippines. I have dealt with it personally, Had to fly back to USA to get a hip replacment revision I had done in Philippines when I broke my hip in Philippines on a motorbike accident. Idiot ortho used a prothesis too small for my American body frame. NEver was able to walk after procedure in PHilippines, spent 7 week in a private hospital.
So you think, that your personal experience reflects the entire PH healthcare system? There are no bad treatments happening in the US? How amazing.... I had to undergo hernia surgery last year. All was great and excellent. I am sure, I was in the PH, when I had that surgery
@@mikejones5364 I was afraid, that this would come. So you think, since hernia is minor, it has nothing to do with healthcare? What about the treatments in the US? 100 % success rate? And 100 % of all treatments in PH a bloody mess? Too bad that you had this bad experience here. I am sorry for that. But one treatment going wrong does not make the entire medicine a bad apple.
@@1100_Rebels_PH I have known too many people in Philippines who got bad medical care, I found out after I had my issue. I have MedJet Evacaution now when I return, You not gonna get me in a Philippines hospital again.
@@1100_Rebels_PH Yes Medical care in USA is 100% better than the Philippines. Better quality of care, more skilled physicians and nurses, much better facalities and modern equipment.
It is interesting that some meds are quite a bit more expensive here in the Philippines since some meds back home are usually priced pretty high. Back home using GoodRx you can get a 30 day supply for .40 cents a pill for the generic. 4.60 a pill is quite shocking actually and assuming is the name brand one.
Hey Kevin, great observation. It’s definitely interesting how medication prices can vary so much here compared to back home. Some meds are surprisingly more expensive in the Philippines, even for generics, which is shocking given how high prices can already be in the U.S. $4.60 a pill is indeed for the name-brand version. Unfortunately, options like GoodRx don’t exist here, so there’s less flexibility when it comes to finding discounts. It’s one of those things to keep in mind when moving here. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
HI Chris! Kamusta? I hope you're doing well.
I agree with you. Most of the time, especially in big cities like Manila or Cebu, Davao, the medical establishments are better than a lot of the medical establishments here in the States.
When we were there in Oct, my FIL broke his eye glasses. We went to a local Optometrist & Ophthalmologist office in Mandaluyong. Because my FIL wasn't a patient they had to do the whole examination to make sure he''ll be receiving the correct glasses. We walked in, his eyes were examined, they did the glasses & lenses there at the site and within 1 hour, he got brand new glasses. The beauty was, we only paid $31 for the exam & the brand new glasses. He's still wearing them and he loves his new glasses.
We're still going through the process of moving there - the plan is to be there by Christmas 2025. :) Ingat lagi at God bless.
Hi Jessica,
Kamusta! I’m doing well, thank you, and I hope you are too.
I completely agree with you-there are definitely aspects of the medical system here, especially in cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, that are so efficient and affordable compared to what we’re used to in the States. Your story about your FIL’s glasses is such a great example. To walk in, get a full eye exam, and leave with new glasses in just an hour for $31? That’s practically unheard of back home! It’s one of those things that really makes you appreciate how convenient and accessible certain services are here.
That’s so exciting that you’re planning to make the move by Christmas 2025! It’s a big transition, but it sounds like you’re well on your way. I hope everything goes smoothly as you prepare for the move. Ingat din kayo, and God bless-thanks for being such a loyal supporter of the channel. :)
Cheers,
Chris
Really ? U so naive, they spend more time doing useless checks n charge u less so u think it is better?
Hi Chris, what a great medical tip including the pharmacy for your drugs. Once they see this content, they should sponsor you to say the least!! Have a good day bud! 👍👍👍
lol i wish. Thanks for watching and commenting though. Hope all is great for you too.
Still loving your videos Chris. Just watched your video on your Leyte apartment as well. I am a small town person in the US so I am positive I will gravitate towards smaller towns in the philippines as well. It is very helpful for me when you show internet speeds, costs, etc. and i greatly appreciate it. I am very jealous of the life you have created for yourself in the Philippines my friend. Not in a bad way - I am not interested in destroying your happiness. I am just hoping I can create a similar situation for myself once i completely retire later this year. I really enjoy the energy/happiness you project since I also tend to be a glass half-full person. Looking forward to sharing more of your adventures in the future. Once again, thanks so much for the videos.
Hey Matt,
Really appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment! Sounds like the smaller towns in the Philippines will be a great fit for you, especially if you already prefer that vibe in the U.S. I’m glad the info on internet speeds and costs is helpful-definitely important things to consider when making the move.
And man, I love that mindset! No doubt you’ll be able to create a setup that works for you once you fully retire. The Philippines has so much to offer if you go in with the right perspective. Wishing you all the best with the transition, and I hope it all comes together smoothly for you.
Looking forward to having you along for more of the adventures-thanks again for the support!
Chris
Thanks for the info and experience on Maxicare
Any time! Hope you're good too.
Glad to know and thank you for sharing God bless you and enjoy the Philippines
Thanks so much
Wow that's amazing,,broke my back here in Canada and after my initial hospital stay trying to see a doctor for follow up has been a nightmare,,sometimes waiting more than 12 hours in emergency to see a doc just to be able to renew a prescription,,ridiculously,,can't wait to get better and move home to the Philippines 🇵🇭,,thanks for your video,,I've forgotten how wonderful it is there
Thanks for sharing your story. That sounds like such a frustrating experience-waiting 12 hours just to see a doctor is beyond ridiculous. I’m sorry you’ve had to go through that, but it’s great to hear you’re looking forward to moving back to the Philippines. There really is something so special about being here. Wishing you a smooth recovery, and thanks so much for watching the video!
Thanks for the med info! I was just at the HOP last month! Great breakfast next door at The Holiday Inn!👍🏻
Yes. I liked the hotel. Great location and decent price.
Enjoy your videos. My wife and I are planning on coming to the Philippines. I got really broken up in a car wreck and broke my back in two different places, left femer broken in half, left knee and ankle broke, my right knee was really broken up and just had a total knee replacement. I also broke both arms and right wrist. I'm 51 years old now. This all happened in a bad car wreck in 2020. So, to say the leastI havealot of chronicpain. I was just curious as to if I would be able to find a good Dr that would help me with pain management. I know a lot of places here in America have really cut out writing pain medication because of people misusing it. Any info would be greatly appreciated. We really do want to come to the Philippines to live.
Thank you for watching the videos, and I’m so sorry to hear about everything you’ve been through. It sounds like you’ve faced some incredibly tough challenges, and I can understand why pain management would be a major concern when considering a move to the Philippines.
I would definitely recommend investigating this thoroughly before making the move. Pain management can vary widely depending on the doctor and the region here. While you can find skilled and compassionate doctors, the approach to prescribing pain medication may be more conservative than what you’re used to in the U.S., especially with regulations around controlled substances.
I’d suggest reaching out to specific doctors or hospitals in larger cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao to discuss your needs ahead of time. Hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila or Chong Hua in Cebu have reputable specialists who may be able to guide you. Pain management clinics aren’t as common here, but some larger hospitals do have departments that could meet your needs.
It’s great that you and your wife are considering the move, and with some planning, I hope it works out for you. Wishing you all the best and hoping for a smooth transition if you decide to make the move!
Cheers,
Chris
Thanks for the info on Maxicare. Sadly they have limited locations throughout the Philippines, and nothing in Bohol.
Hey Kevin, you’re absolutely right-limited locations are definitely one of the disadvantages of Maxicare. If you’re looking for coverage across more areas, PhilHealth might be a better option to consider. It’s not perfect, but it’s more widely available throughout the Philippines, including in Bohol. Hope that helps!
Awesome video, Chris. Thank you so much.
Glad you liked it!
Love that you did this topic.
No problem. Thanks for watching and commenting
Chris thanks for sharing valuable information 👏🏾!
Glad it was helpful!
Learned about your channel from Chad's. My plan is to arrive @CEB, first night at 38 Park Ave. then get a 1 year lease, maybe at Marco Polo Towers. This way I can stay in one place for a while to get situated, then get all my visa, driver's license and medical together. My issue is ophthalmic care. Thanks for the vid.
Thanks for checking out the channel, and I’m glad you found me through Chad’s! Both condos are great choices. 38 Park Ave is definitely super convenient being right in IT Park-you’ll have everything you need close by. Marco Polo Towers is also a solid option, especially if you’re looking for a quieter vibe with a bit more space.
Your plan sounds great-having a base for a year will definitely make getting everything sorted, like visas, driver’s license, and medical care, much easier. For ophthalmic care, you’ll find some good options in Cebu, especially at larger facilities like Chong Hua or Cebu Doctors’ University Hospital. Let me know how it all goes, and good luck with the move!
Good job Chris. Thanks for all the info.
Thanks for watching!
Was in hospital in Da Nang for three days. Including all lab tests, private nurses, all doctor visits, radiology tests, medications, food, private nurse $356. I have doctors in BKK, Da Nang, Ho Chi Min, BGC, etc preemptively. All gave me their personal cell phones and told be to text them anytime. SE Asia is not MANAGED CARE like in US. I have direct health care that is far superior to anything in the US. I forgot my meds also and was able to just go to pharmacies in SE Asia and get refill without Dr Visit. Great video
Hey, thanks for watching and for sharing your experience! It’s amazing to hear how efficient and accessible healthcare can be in SE Asia. I completely agree-having direct access to healthcare and being able to handle things quickly at the pharmacy is a huge advantage. It really highlights the differences compared to the managed care system in the US. Glad to know you’ve had such positive experiences here. Take care, and thanks again!
Well done✔️👍 good information
Thank you! Cheers!
Cialis has so many benefits aside from the obvious. ASADA was considering listing it as a PED. Great Video Chris.
Someone else was talking about it being a PED which I’m also seeing
@@CarefreeChris To me that's a confirmation that it's effective. I have been taking it with my TRT for years, no complications whatsoever. Thanks for all your vids.
very informative as always
Glad you think so!
Thanks for this video. Chris...Jim
Thanks Jim. Glad it was helpful!
Hope all is well brother!! You can get the daily form from Mark Cubans cost plus drugs for like $20 for 90 days. It’s so cheap here in the states, so might be better shipping it over there. Amazon pharmacy has it too, so even if it’s slightly more expensive the free shipping will more than make up for it. The telemed docs are like phone doc in a box, so they can send the script for like a $29 televisit from doctronic, or various others. That script would save you a lot each year doing it that way.
Hey brother, thanks for the info! That’s a great setup for folks in the States, but my options are pretty limited here online. Unfortunately, things like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs or Amazon Pharmacy aren’t available for me, so I have to rely on what I can get locally. Appreciate you sharing though-hope all is well with you too!
my experience with meds in the Phils was similar. efficient and inexpensive, though not as quick as your visit! I think the other pharmacy you meant was Watsons.. 😃
Yeah exactly. I couldn't remember the name of Watsons to save my life lol
When you say Mercury is the most "cost effective", does that mean cheapest? And do you know if prices are standard country-wide or is it soecific to location? I was wondering about this just yesterday. Great vid, thanks!
I did a little more digging and found the following... When I mentioned that Mercury Drug is the most “cost-effective,” I was referring to its affordability based on personal experiences and word-of-mouth recommendations. However, pricing can vary between different pharmacy chains in the Philippines, such as Mercury Drug, Rose Pharmacy, and Watsons.
According to discussions among consumers, some have found that Mercury Drug offers medications at lower prices compared to Watsons, which also focuses on cosmetics and skincare products. For example, one user noted that a specific medication was priced at ₱12 per tablet at Mercury Drug, while the same was almost ₱18 at Watsons. 
Additionally, a comparison between Mercury Drug and Rose Pharmacy indicated that Rose Pharmacy might offer certain medications at lower prices. In one instance, a customer found a significant price difference for a particular medicine, favoring Rose Pharmacy. 
It’s important to note that prices can vary not only between chains but also by location. Factors such as regional operating costs and local competition can influence pricing. Therefore, it’s advisable to compare prices at different pharmacies in your area to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
In summary, while Mercury Drug is often considered cost-effective, it’s beneficial to check with multiple pharmacies, including Rose Pharmacy and Watsons, as prices can differ based on the specific medication and location.
healthcare here in CA is bad, we have to wait a month to see a doctor, lab work results take weeks & sometimes you don't see a real doctor, just a nurse practitioner
Yeah, I hear that a lot about healthcare in CA. The wait times are insane, and the fact that you might not even see a real doctor just makes it worse. It’s crazy how long lab results take too-definitely a frustrating system to deal with!
3:20 and that's why we have filipina..they remember every lil detail .. and then some! Island girls 🏝☀🐺
lol so true jeff:)
Naw brother in the states your doctor will renew your prescription through Walgreens and schedule you an appointment for a week or two later
Thanks for sharing your perspective, brother. The point I was making is that here in the Philippines, you can walk in and see a doctor within minutes just by showing up, which is unheard of in the US. I totally get that prescriptions can be renewed quickly through Walgreens back home, but getting an actual appointment with a doctor usually takes at least a week or two there. It’s a different system for sure!
In Australia, most people dont have to make an appointment for doctor unless you want to attend a popular medical centre in the shopping Mall then you need an appointment.
Secondly, a few years ago i caugh cold flu in Manila hotel air conditioning, I went to a doctor, they gave me 3-4 different medication. After 5 days still not recover and i could not talk either. I went to Mercury Phamarcy , they recommend a cough medication still doesnt work. then i return back to Australia
Cold Flu and cough happen in every country and very easy to cure. One of the pinoy tourist got a flu in thailand , i gave him 1 tablet from Australia. within 1 hour, no more cough, no more running nose, no more saliva etc.within 12 hours , he back in action.
He could not believe it , he want to buy from me because he travel all year.
Thanks for sharing your experience-it’s interesting to hear how things work in Australia with walk-in doctor visits, especially compared to needing appointments in some places.
I can understand your frustration with dealing with a flu in Manila and struggling to find effective medication. It’s amazing how quickly the medication you had from Australia worked for that Pinoy tourist! Sometimes the formulations or dosages of medications can vary a lot between countries, which can make a huge difference in how effective they are.
It sounds like you’ve got a good system with the meds you bring from Australia-definitely helpful when you’re traveling or helping others while on the road. Thanks again for your insight!
Where I live in the Virginia If you need to change your primary care doctor due to incompetence , the wait for a new patient appointment is 1-5 months minimum. The US death care system is an absolute disgrace overall.
hanks for sharing your experience, and I completely understand your frustration. The long wait times and challenges with the healthcare system in the U.S. can be really discouraging. I appreciate you watching and engaging-take care, and all the best to you!
South Star Drug?
I'm not sure about that place. Haven't seen one yet
You can’t beat the Quest Hotel
I know right. Perfect location
Keep "it" up Chris! LOL 😅
lol hopefully:)
hey we need the extra help to compete with the young ladies!! 😁
For established prescription renewals in the US, you don't even have to drive to a doctor's office. You can phone the doctor's office and a nurse can speak with your doctor and issue the prescription to Walgreens or Rite Aid electronically.
I know. I am the Philippine vlogger exaggeration police. lol
Thanks for sharing your perspective, brother. The point I was making is that here in the Philippines, you can walk in and see a doctor within minutes just by showing up, which is unheard of in the US. I totally get that prescriptions can be renewed quickly through Walgreens back home, but getting an actual appointment with a doctor usually takes at least a week or two there. It’s a different system for sure!
@@CarefreeChris - Fair enough, but the speed at which you see a Maxicare doctor can vary greatly in the Philippines. I am not sure how many locations you ran your speed test on (one?), but the IT Park location routinely has a line of 20 people waiting in the queue on any given day as its norm.
Chris was cute in the vid.
:)
So reasonable for that room in that location; $45 USD.
Absolutely
Hernia? Broken leg, or arm? Heart bypass surgery? Kidney stones? NAFL disease? Cateracs?...?
For anything major like the examples you mentioned-hernia, broken bones, heart bypass surgery, or anything else serious-I’d definitely head to St. Luke’s in Manila or even fly to KL or Thailand. They have excellent facilities and specialists for those kinds of procedures. For smaller, day-to-day issues, though, I’ve found the care here in the provinces to be pretty convenient.
I'm a veteran 😊they have a va for me
Nice and thank you for your service:)
Watson's Pharmacy
Yeah exactly. I couldn't remember the name to save my life during the shoot. lol
Comparing Philippines prices to American prices is a huge mistake. It’s better to compare Philippines prices to neighbouring countries such as Vietnam or Thailand. You’ll quickly realize the Philippines is overpriced (and low-quality) for things like meals, rent, dental, or medical care. $43 for that shoe-box hotel is extremely overpriced.
If I was living in the Philippines and needed some mediocre medical procedure or dental procedures… I would 100% jump on a plane to Bangkok Thailand for top notch care at a reasonable price
. I would never go to a Philippines medical facility.
I can’t believe you spent $300 on two boxes of Cialus. It’s only $1 a tablet for legit genuine pharmacy brands in neighbouring Asian countries. About 6X less than what you spent.
Things look great to some guy watching this from America that has never been to Asia. But from a guy that has lived in multiple Asian countries, in my opinion be cautious about the Philippines. The rent is really high and the quality of everything isn’t justified in a photo or video. When I left the Philippines my life improved 2X and my budget was cut in half. Stay open minded. Don’t get tunnel vision.
Thanks for your input-I appreciate the perspective. Just to clarify, I’m comparing the Philippines to the U.S., as that’s where I lived before moving here. I understand there’s a strong medical tourism market in Thailand and KL, and I do plan to partake in that at some point (KL is on my list), but since I live in the Philippines, I rely on the local medical facilities for everyday stuff.
For anything major, like surgeries or specialized procedures, I’d head to St. Luke’s in Manila or fly to Thailand or KL for top-notch care. That said, for routine issues, the convenience here is hard to beat-I’ve been able to see doctors quickly, which is unheard of in the U.S., and that’s been a big plus for me.
I totally get your point about costs and quality across different Asian countries. Everyone’s experience is different, and while I’m enjoying my time here, I’ll definitely stay open-minded and keep exploring options. Thanks for sharing!
why he would compare a place he never been. buwang kaba...
@ everyone thinks the Philippines is so affordable compared to their home Western country. Then when they arrive in PH it’s a harsh reality to learn that neighboring Asian countries with better infrastructure are sometimes half the cost of the Philippines. Less headache. More money. Healthier food, etc.
I would never go to a medical establishment in Philippines u just taking on way too much risk
I understand where you’re coming from, and for major or complex procedures, I agree that it’s wise to be cautious. That said, for smaller, day-to-day medical needs, I’ve found the care here to be quick, accessible, and affordable. It really depends on the situation and the facilities you choose.
You forgot to buy your memory pills.... LOL
you have to buy them, so you won't forget to buy them, and remember all the pharmacies in Cebu... 🤣
lol to funny:)
Healthcare is horrible in Philippines. I have dealt with it personally, Had to fly back to USA to get a hip replacment revision I had done in Philippines when I broke my hip in Philippines on a motorbike accident. Idiot ortho used a prothesis too small for my American body frame. NEver was able to walk after procedure in PHilippines, spent 7 week in a private hospital.
So you think, that your personal experience reflects the entire PH healthcare system? There are no bad treatments happening in the US? How amazing.... I had to undergo hernia surgery last year. All was great and excellent. I am sure, I was in the PH, when I had that surgery
@@1100_Rebels_PH Hernia is minor.
@@mikejones5364 I was afraid, that this would come. So you think, since hernia is minor, it has nothing to do with healthcare?
What about the treatments in the US? 100 % success rate? And 100 % of all treatments in PH a bloody mess?
Too bad that you had this bad experience here. I am sorry for that. But one treatment going wrong does not make the entire medicine a bad apple.
@@1100_Rebels_PH I have known too many people in Philippines who got bad medical care, I found out after I had my issue. I have MedJet Evacaution now when I return, You not gonna get me in a Philippines hospital again.
@@1100_Rebels_PH Yes Medical care in USA is 100% better than the Philippines. Better quality of care, more skilled physicians and nurses, much better facalities and modern equipment.
ha ha ha ha i know what you mean with 50+ 🤣🤣🤣
lol right. It's rough getting old:)
It is interesting that some meds are quite a bit more expensive here in the Philippines since some meds back home are usually priced pretty high. Back home using GoodRx you can get a 30 day supply for .40 cents a pill for the generic. 4.60 a pill is quite shocking actually and assuming is the name brand one.
Hey Kevin, great observation. It’s definitely interesting how medication prices can vary so much here compared to back home. Some meds are surprisingly more expensive in the Philippines, even for generics, which is shocking given how high prices can already be in the U.S.
$4.60 a pill is indeed for the name-brand version. Unfortunately, options like GoodRx don’t exist here, so there’s less flexibility when it comes to finding discounts. It’s one of those things to keep in mind when moving here. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!