Hospital Serena del Mar

We were referred to this private hospital by a smaller clinic for a rabies vaccination, but unfortunately the vaccine was not available on site. This led to unnecessary delays and confusion. One staff member was helpful and informed us that rabies vaccines are usually only available at local vaccination centers – this is very important information that should be communicated more clearly in advance. Also, only a few staff members spoke English, which made communication a bit difficult. Tip for others: if you need a specific vaccine, especially rabies, go directly to a local vaccination center.

I didn't have the best experience here. I had an emergency but I was sent to a specialist who sent us to the emergency room after that, we didn't hear from him. He was the specialist!! At the emergency room we were lucky to find a great doctor. Sadly, we ended up spending extra with the specialist when wasn't needed and didn't really help us. I think the staff on the WhatsApp needs to do better because they could have sent us to the emergency room right away because of the symptoms but they didn't. The nurses are a bit rude in my opinion. I know it's not an easy job but they could do better. Their equipment have high technology which is a good thing. Not all of the staff speaks English which made it more difficult to be attended. Bring your insurance or credit card ready because the bill can go really high.

Visit date: May 18, 2024 Reason for visit: I am visiting from the US and wanted to get some screening tests. I cannot say enough about how great my visit was to Hospital Serena Del Mar! Everything from the confidential customer service offered via WhatsApp to my actual appointment, and finally getting results was professional, efficient, and kind. I tried an urgent care before reaching out to Del Mar. It was a disaster; I actually left the waiting room after an hour of waiting. I finally googled other clinics and I’m so glad I did! Do not delay if you are a tourist who needs healthcare. Hospital Serena Del Mar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ all around! -The chat function for the International Office was quick and easy. I was able to get my questions answered (in English) and feel confident about coming in for services. -The hospital is beautiful! It is huge, spacious, extremely clean, and I felt relief as soon as I walked in. -The International Office staff wasn’t there when I first arrived so other staff took time away from their busy schedules to help me. I felt so supported! -Once my International Office rep did arrive, he was patient and helpful. -The admission paperwork was easy to complete and my tests were all done in under 15 minutes. -NOTE: I paid directly so I can’t comment on using insurance. -Afterward, I grabbed breakfast in the Tostado on the first floor, and two hours later had all of my results in my email inbox! It was so much better than ANY healthcare service I’ve received in the States or Colombia and I am so grateful. Keep up the great work!

The incompetence of their medical staff is astounding. We went to get a cut checked and they wanted to call in an orthopedic specialist WITHOUT EVEN LOOKING AT THE CUT!!! To make things worse- the intern that tells me this has been chatting on his phone for the last two hours. I guess they were calling in the “specialist” to charge us more since we are not covered by insurance in Colombia. Bottom line, they are clearly incompetent and will try and prey on foreigners. Avoid like the plague, Cartagena has smaller hospitals with better care.

When I seriously injured my knee in Cartagena, the taxi driver said that he would take me to the best hospital. He was correct, my experience here was excellent. Not only was the entire hospital modern and new, but everyone was so helpful and friendly. Extra thanks to the front desk for working directly with my travel insurance company. And I can't say enough about the excellent care provided by Dra. Diana López Hoyos - Muchas gracias!