Health Care in Las Tablas

By Betsy Burlingame

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Summary: Dive into healthcare resources for expats and digital nomads in Las Tablas: identify leading healthcare providers, hospitals, and medical centers for optimal care.

The healthcare system in Las Tablas, is a blend of public and private services. The quality of care varies, with private hospitals generally offering a higher standard of care than public ones. However, both systems are accessible to locals and foreigners alike.

Panama's Healthcare System

Panama's public healthcare system, known as the Caja de Seguro Social (CSS), is widely used by both locals and foreigners. However, the quality of care in public hospitals can vary, and for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals. Public hospitals in Las Tablas, like many in Panama, can be crowded and the wait times can be long. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Panama. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals due to the higher standard of care and shorter wait times. Private hospitals in Las Tablas offer a more comfortable and efficient experience, with many recommending them for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Las Tablas

  • Las Tablas Public Hospital (Public, located in Las Tablas)
  • Dr. Rafael Estevez Hospital (Public, located in Aguadulce, approximately 1.5 hours by car from Las Tablas)
  • Punta Pacifica Hospital (Private, located in Panama City, approximately 4 hours by car from Las Tablas)
Due to the limited number of hospitals in Las Tablas, many expats choose to travel to larger cities like Aguadulce or Panama City for specialized medical care and surgeries.

Emergency Services in Las Tablas

Emergency services, including ambulance services, are available in Las Tablas. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911. However, response times can vary and there can sometimes be delays, particularly in more remote areas.

Health Insurance Companies in Las Tablas

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Las Tablas, including Seguros Mapfre and ASSA Compañía de Seguros. These companies offer a range of coverage options, from basic plans to comprehensive coverage. Many expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, although some prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers for their international coverage needs.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Caballero Méndez & Candanedo
Caballero Méndez & Candanedo

Our firm is especially recognized for its Immigration and Visa services, helping clients relocate smoothly, obtain residency, and comply with Panama’s legal requirements. We make the migration process clear, efficient, and stress-free, so you can focus on what truly matters: starting your new life or business project with confidence.
Learn More

Caballero Méndez & CandanedoCaballero Méndez & Candanedo

Our firm is especially recognized for its Immigration and Visa services, helping clients relocate smoothly, obtain residency, and comply with Panama’s legal requirements. We make the migration process clear, efficient, and stress-free, so you can focus on what truly matters: starting your new life or business project with confidence.
Learn More

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

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