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iMPORTING mEDICINE AND SUPPLEMENTS

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10YEAREXPAT
  10/14/2017 00:48 EST

I have been in Panama for 10 years now, originally from Canada the weather here is just great and Panama can be a pretty cheap place to live and the beaches are typically desolate and beautiful

However there is an insidious issue that has appeared over the last year, If you have need of any type of medicines (and I mean even as insignificant as low dose aspirin regimen) it is now very difficult to import those items into Panama, the government has put severe restrictions on imports of everything you put in your body or on your body (creams, cosmetics included), The customs clearance can be long and expensive. Luckily I am healthy but I have many friends who rely on there medication and now they must reconsider their choice to move to Panama. Most expat web sites talk about housing costs and restaurants and health care costs but nobody talks about this very important issue "how do people get their required medicine?" many people have their medication paid for by insurance companies or the federal government , now it is very difficult for this to happen.

I am curious if this is a problem in other countries ?

islandraisin
  10/14/2017 09:48 EST

Great information but I am wondering if it can be sent to a retiree through a shipping company like you would if you buy on Amazon and the items are first sent to Mamie Florida then to Panama does customs still inspect the packages?

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Panama2017
  10/14/2017 10:35 EST

Every package that we receive from the mail forwarder has been opened and inspected. Once they sent us a photo of the contents complaining about a hair mousse. They did not confiscate it but threatened to.

Kohl
  10/14/2017 10:51 EST

This same rule apply in Costa Rica.

islandraisin
  10/14/2017 10:57 EST

You know that is just not right. There got to be a way round all of that. Question: In Panama do they have the same medications in their Pharmacies as we do in the US and is it about the same price? Second what if you bring a large supply of your medication when you arrive at the airport

islandraisin
  10/14/2017 10:59 EST

Dam and I was thinking of bring it through Costa Rica can't win for losing can you

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Kohl
  10/14/2017 11:01 EST

If arriving by airplane you can bring in your meds. and supplements.

Some items may be sent if you have a permit.

http://aeropost.com/site/en/getit-restricted-shipping

isand2017
  10/14/2017 11:51 EST

Have you had a copy of your medical records sent to Punta Pacifica Hospital or any other private hospital and sat down with a doctor to discuss your condition? Its hard to believe that you will not be able to locate a doctor/specialist in Panama who will not be willing to treat your condition and continue your prescriptions.
Contact the US or Canadian Embassy in Panama for advice.
PH# 011-507-317-5000 (if dialing from the U.S.) or at 317-5000 (if dialing from Panama). You can also email at :[email protected]

panamajames
  10/14/2017 11:55 EST

Supplements are all taxed and they don't differentiate between your doctor prescribed drugs in the States or Canada and vitamins. Some people were starting businesses here, importing supplements and makeup products. The Government was not getting any of the tax dollars as it was all being sold privately through these expat entrepreneurs. There are so many Amway, Herbalife, Avon and Mary Kay people living here now and all trying to supplement their pension incomes. As soon as you find a way around it, it seems, they will find a way around you. You can still continue to import, but you are going to be paying the taxes on it, up front.

ranadelnorte
  10/14/2017 13:06 EST

To clarify some points about medications in Panama:
-Most medications are available without prescription, with the exception of antibiotics and narcotic pain medications.
-Panama has a large formulary; most (but not all) prescription meds from your home country will be available here. In some cases, the pharmacy will order for you. You need to check during one of your scouting visits if they have what you need.
-Prices can be more, or less, than in your home country. Check prices during your scouting trip.
-Vitamins and supplements are less available here (range and brands). They will most likely be more expensive than in your home country.
-Panama has an equivalent of a food and drug administration, and yes, they have been applying their existing regulations rigorously lately to protect the consumer.
-No need to get all panicked about availability of meds here.
-If you are relying on insurance from outside Panama to pay for your prescriptions, getting them sent to you is closing as an option. Therefore, you’ll have to get local insurance if you qualify, absorb the cost of your meds into your budget, or make regular trips back to your home country to pick up a supply.
-A reasonable amount of meds in your carry-on luggage is allowed, but you should carry your prescription.

Hope this helps a bit.

islandraisin
  10/14/2017 13:09 EST

Thank you for the explanation it does clarify things better

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marta231655
  10/14/2017 15:03 EST

I get most of my meds from a military pharmacy. I get a 90 day supply. My plan had been to fly back or have my wife fly back every 90 days and pick up what I need. I was in panama once and realized I did not have enough insulin. I went to the pharmacy and got what I needed and I was suprised at how low the cost was, and did not need a script

isand2017
  10/14/2017 18:10 EST

Did you have your medical records sent to one of the private hospitals that have US trained and english speaking doctors?
Did they exam you and review your medical records?
Did you try the following for assistance?
Health Alliance (DoctorCare / WeCare Pharmacy)
Veteran Service Officer PANAMA
VONAGE (Stateside Line) 1-512-772-1401
Panama Cell 011-507-6-782-1193

isand2017
  10/14/2017 18:37 EST

New Brisas Hospital in Panama may provide help to US veterans.
Check out this link:
https://panamarelocationtours.com/veterans-medical-benefits-in-panama

StanleySankey
  10/15/2017 10:56 EST

"A growing number of U.S. voters retiring abroad are unable to access the Medicare benefits they deserve. "

http://americasquarterly.org/content/help-boomers-retire-latin-america

panamajames
  10/15/2017 15:49 EST

Interesting that the picture shown here is of the Tuesday Boquete Market held every Tuesday from 9am to noon, but you can get in around 8 when the folks are setting up for the very freshest in produce and items for sale. Most of us just use it as a social for expats as more than 1000 expats show up every Tuesday for the market. It's a great place to connect and reconnect with new and old friends........

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