Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Panama?

When planning to move to Panama as an expat or digital nomad, one of the key considerations is health insurance. Panama requires that foreigners applying for residency obtain health insurance that meets specific criteria. The insurance policy must cover at least USD 5,000 in medical expenses and include coverage for hospitalization and emergency services. Additionally, the policy should be valid for the duration of your stay in Panama, with a minimum coverage period of one year. It's crucial to ensure that your health insurance meets these requirements to facilitate a smooth residency application process.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Yes, expat health insurance can meet the requirements for Panama residency, provided that the policy includes the necessary coverage. Many international health insurance providers offer plans tailored for expats that can be customized to meet Panama's specific requirements. When selecting an expat health insurance plan, ensure that it covers medical expenses up to at least USD 5,000, includes hospitalization and emergency services, and is valid for the duration of your stay in Panama. Always verify the details with your insurance provider to confirm that the policy meets the necessary criteria.

Which Local Health Insurers Offer This Type of Insurance?

Several local health insurers in Panama offer insurance plans that meet the requirements for residency. Some of the prominent local health insurers include ASSA, MAPFRE, and Blue Cross Blue Shield Panama. These companies provide a range of health insurance plans designed to cater to the needs of expats and digital nomads. Their plans typically include the required coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and emergency services. It's advisable to compare plans from different insurers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Advice from Expats in Panama About Health Insurance

Expats in Panama offer valuable advice for newcomers seeking health insurance. They recommend carefully reviewing the policy details to ensure that it meets Panama's specific requirements for residency. Additionally, it's essential to consider factors such as the deductible, co-payments, and any exclusions or limitations in the policy. Expats also advise looking for insurance plans that offer coverage for pre-existing conditions and include benefits such as dental and vision care. Moreover, it's beneficial to choose an insurance provider with a strong reputation and a reliable network of healthcare providers in Panama. By doing thorough research and comparing different insurance plans, you can find a comprehensive health insurance policy that meets your needs and provides peace of mind during your stay in Panama.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in Panama

"Yes, healthcare and health insurance in Panama are generally more affordable compared to other developed countries. Costs may vary depending on the type of care and the medical center, but overall, they are more economical than in many Western countries," wrote Moises Alvarado N. from Panama Legal Business (PANLEB).

Connect

Moises Alvarado N.

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

Moisés Alvarado Navarro is an experienced legal advisor in Panama and has assisted numerous foreigners in establishing themselves in Panama.

Click connect to have our partner, Moises, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Connect

Moises Alvarado N.

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

Moisés Alvarado Navarro is an experienced legal advisor in Panama and has assisted numerous foreigners in establishing themselves in Panama.

Click connect to have our partner, Moises, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

"The best option for expats is international health insurance, purchased before you depart. With an international health insurance plan, you won't have to worry about language barriers, excessive government paperwork or massive fees from local providers. Since private hospitals in Panama are high quality and have many English-speaking healthcare workers, you'll find your transition to care in Panama nearly seamless. Local coverage in Panama is provided by private insurers in HMO-style or hospital-based plans. Basic coverage can cost as little at $30/month or up to $200/month for advanced cover. Of course, premiums will vary based on age and pre-existing conditions,"

"Last week I decided that it was time to do something about the chest pains I have been having for several months. I chose a private medical clinic in Boquete, "Clínica Especializada Boquete S.A." because there was an empty parking space in front of it. Within five minutes I was speaking with Dr. Josimar Gómez. He speaks fluent English and spent some time discussing my symptoms before measuring my blood pressure and strongly recommending that I do something about it immediately. A routine consultation costs $15. If you show up in the middle of the night it will be $40. He prescribed blood pressure medication immediately and told me to get blood and urine tests and a chest x-ray. I went to a medical laboratory around the corner where it took about 15 minutes to provide specimens. The results were available by email before the end of the day. Cost: $45.00. I had to go to Hospital Chiriquí in David for the x-ray. Again, no appointment necessary, but I did have to wait over an hour, possibly because they forgot about me. Cost: $25.50 and results were available by email the next day. After a week on the blood pressure medication I returned to Dr. Gomez, he found that my blood pressure was down to 140/80, I was no longer experiencing chest pains, and the tests did not show any serious problems. I will continue with the blood pressure medication and talk to him again in two months. Total cost: just over $100. In the US I'm quite sure that the first doctor would have sent me to the hospital emergency room and the total bill would have run into thousands of dollars. They would have prescribed the most expensive tests they could think of, possibly including invasive procedures that are painful and risky, and I expect that I would still be waiting for a diagnosis," stated one expat in Panama.

"Health care is excellent, in private hospitals, with excellent doctors, specialists, surgeons, nurses, etc....and price are cheaper than the USA. A Healthcare plan here (we are with Cigna but there are many other companies to choose from) covers us, my wife and I, in Panama and worldwide for a fraction of USA health plan cost so Healthcare is very affordable in Panama," remarked one expat in Panama.

"In the event described above my experience was at least as good as I would have gotten in the U.S. This included the Dr. spending about 45 minutes sewing up the large wound in the back of my arm, 4 return visits for him to look at it to make sure it was healing properly and there was no infection. And on the other days if I hadn't taken and picture by noon to send to him and given an update that it was ok he sent me a text message to ask what was going on. On the 7th day I returned and had the stitches removed all for a grand total of $100. Keep in mind this was an open wound torn open on the pavement that was about a 2" circle exposing the muscle and tendons, this wasn't just a simple cut with stitches. There's a scar but I was amazed at how well it turned out. Not very noticeable unless I just raise my elbow and point it out," said one expat living in Panama.