Top Hospitals in Panama by Specialty
Summary: If you're moving to Panama or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.
Panama's healthcare system is a mix of public and private hospitals, with the latter often being preferred by expats, international retirees, and digital nomads due to their modern facilities and shorter wait times. While the country offers quality healthcare, some highly specialized treatments or rare medical conditions might necessitate travel back home. Here's a guide to the top hospitals in Panama for various medical conditions and surgeries:
Top Hospitals in Panama for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions
The Hospital Punta Pacífica in Panama City is a top choice for heart surgery and chronic heart conditions. It is affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International and offers state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the Hospital Nacional, also in Panama City, has a good cardiology department.
Best Hospitals for Cancer Care
The Instituto Oncológico Nacional in Panama City is the leading public hospital for cancer treatment. In the private sector, Hospital Punta Pacífica and Clínica Hospital San Fernando also offer comprehensive cancer care services.
Top Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units
For neonatal intensive care, the Hospital del Niño in Panama City is one of the best public options. In the private sector, Hospital Punta Pacífica and Hospital San Fernando have excellent neonatal facilities.
Best Hospitals for Diabetes
The Instituto Nacional de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas (INDICEM) in Panama City is a public hospital specializing in diabetes treatment. Private hospitals like Hospital Punta Pacífica and Clínica Hospital San Fernando also provide comprehensive diabetes care.
Top Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care
The Instituto Nacional de Trasplante (INSAT) in Panama City is the main public center for kidney transplants. For private care, consider Hospital Punta Pacífica and Clínica Hospital San Fernando, which offer kidney treatment and dialysis services.
Best Hospitals for Neurology
The Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía in Panama City is the leading public hospital for neurological conditions. Private options include Hospital Punta Pacífica and Clínica Hospital San Fernando.
Top Hospitals for Stroke Treatment
For stroke treatment, consider the Complejo Hospitalario Metropolitano Dr. Arnulfo Arias Madrid, a public hospital in Panama City. Private hospitals like Hospital Punta Pacífica and Hospital San Fernando also provide stroke treatment services.
Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery
The Hospital Susana Jones Cano in Panama City is a public hospital known for its orthopedic services. In the private sector, Hospital Punta Pacífica and Clínica Hospital San Fernando are excellent choices for orthopedic surgery.
Top Hospitals for Pediatric Care
The Hospital del Niño in Panama City is the main public hospital for pediatric care. Private options include the Hospital del Prado and the Hospital Punta Pacífica, both offering excellent pediatric services.
Top Hospital for Ophthalmology
The Hospital Oftalmológico Dr. Luis "Chicho" Fábrega in Panama City is a public hospital specializing in eye care. For private care, consider the Centro de Cirugía Ocular.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Panama Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Panama
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Panama
- Best Places to Live in Panama
- Real Estate in Panama
- Guide to Real Estate in Panama
- Pros & Cons of Living in Panama
- Cost of Living in Panama
- Having a Baby in Panama
- Health Insurance in Panama
- Best Places to Visit in Panama for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in Panama
- 2026 Guide to Living in Panama
- Pros and Cons of Living in Panama 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Panama
- More Advice about Retiring in Panama
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Panama


