Can I pay with CareCredit in the Dominican Republic?

Updated November 2025

What is CareCredit and where does it work?

Short answer: CareCredit is a U.S.-only healthcare credit product offered by Synchrony Bank, usable at enrolled providers within the United States.

It’s accepted at over 250,000 U.S. locations but operates on a closed domestic merchant network rather than a global card system. It functions like a line of credit specifically for approved healthcare providers in the U.S (CareCredit FAQs).

Because of this, using the card abroad, at clinics outside the U.S., is generally not possible.

Why isn’t CareCredit accepted for surgery in the Dominican Republic?

Short answer: Clinics in the DR are not enrolled in the CareCredit network, and most still rely on cash or local transfers instead of international healthcare cards.

In the Dominican Republic, cash remains the dominant payment method for private healthcare. Reports on local commerce note that while some establishments accept Visa or Mastercard, cash and local bank transfers remain the norm for healthcare transactions (SantoDomingoLiving.com).

Because CareCredit operates only with approved U.S. merchants, Dominican providers cannot process it—even if they accept major credit cards. This limits U.S. patients’ ability to use existing CareCredit balances abroad.

What payment and financing options do patients actually have in the DR?

Short answer: While many clinicians still rely on cash and local transfers, a growing number are partnering with digital platforms like heva that enable global payments and financing.

Platforms such as heva allow these doctors to accept credit and debit cards (including Amex), ACH, and—most importantly—Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) financing options.

How this flexibility works through heva

• Choose a partnered doctor: Patients select a verified provider using heva.
• Select a payment plan: During booking, eligible patients can apply for installment or BNPL financing.
• Secure digital checkout: Pay by card or bank method in the currency of your preference through heva’s encrypted gateway.
• Manage over time: Payments continue seamlessly on schedule while the provider is safely paid.

Similar to what U.S. patients expect from tools like CareCredit, heva extends that experience globally, improving convenience and satisfaction.

How is flexibility possible abroad?

Short answer: heva brings the convenience of everyday U.S. BNPL tools to cross-border healthcare—covering payments, financing, and transparency for patients and providers.

• Built-in financing: BNPL options allow distribution of payments before and after travel.
• Multi-currency support: Secure transactions in USD or DOP through global processors.
• Documentation clarity: Instant receipts and cost breakdowns for reimbursement or record-keeping.
• Global accessibility: Doctors across the Dominican Republic and Mexico can now serve patients who expect the same financial flexibility they have at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use CareCredit at Dominican Republic clinics?

No. CareCredit works only within the United States at enrolled merchants and is generally not processed abroad (CareCredit FAQs).

2. What are the most common payment methods for surgery in the DR?

Cash and local bank transfers remain dominant, though some clinics accept Visa/Mastercard. Many are now adopting digital platforms like heva to expand options.

3. How can I finance a procedure abroad if CareCredit isn’t accepted?

Clinics partnered with heva offer BNPL financing and global card acceptance so international patients can manage costs over time.

4. Does heva charge interest for financing?

Terms depend on the provider and financing plan. BNPL may vary depending on credit history and other factors. Details are disclosed before checkout.

5. Is heva available outside the Dominican Republic?

Yes. heva currently supports providers across Mexico and other Latin American countries, with expansion underway across additional cross-border care destinations.

Disclaimers

Medical Disclaimer: This article provides educational information about medical tourism safety considerations. It is not medical advice. heva is a healthcare coordination platform connecting patients with providers—we do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All medical and travel decisions should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.

Safety Information: Safety recommendations are based on best practices and expert guidelines. Individual circumstances may require additional precautions. Patients should continue to conduct their own research and verification of providers and facilities for good measure. heva facilitates connections but does not guarantee results or safety outcomes.

Insurance Information: Insurance recommendations are general guidance only. Specific coverage needs vary by individual circumstances and procedures. Patients should consult with insurance professionals to determine appropriate coverage levels and providers.

International Healthcare: International medical care involves inherent risks and additional considerations including emergency protocols, legal differences, and care coordination. Patients should thoroughly research all aspects and maintain realistic expectations about cross-border healthcare.