Healthcare providers across the border ready for winter visitors

LOS ALGODONES, Mexico (KYMA) - With fall almost here, and winter right behind, healthcare providers across the border are getting ready for winter visitors, but some are fearful businesses might not be as booming as it once was.

Dr. Cesar Ruiz has been the owner and Chief Executive Officer of Rumo Dental for ten years.

In the last two years, Dr. Ruiz said he's seen 50% drop in snowbirds. He believes it's partly due to border politics, and some visitors not feeling safe.

"They decided not to come to Mexico because of the news, that it is very dangerous. But we tell the patients that it is very safe in Los Algodones," Ruiz shared. "We have little videos that show that Los Algodones is the safe part of Mexico."

Ruiz does expect to see more visitors this year, with messaging that Los Algodones is ready to welcome them.

"We explain that we got patients from Canada that say they cross the border without a problem and expect that this year with all the information and videos that we are performing with the patients they have the possibility to come this year," Ruiz shared.

Kandyse Barr made her way to Algodones from Las Vegas. It was her first time there. So far, she said she's had a good experience.

"Definitely never not feel safe walking last night even when all the offices were closed with no issues, it's very safe," Barr remarked.

Snowbirds spend around $40 million every year in Los Algodones on healthcare, including dental and vision.

As healthcare continues to rise in the U.S., healthcare providers in Los Algodones hope to see more patients this upcoming snowbirds season.