15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Panama

"Healthcare services in Panama are generally of a high quality, with both public and private options available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Panamanian citizens. It is also available to foreign residents, although they may have to pay a fee. The public healthcare system is generally of a good quality, with a wide range of services available. Expats in Panama can use the public healthcare system, although they may have to pay a fee. Private healthcare is also available in Panama, and is generally of a higher quality than the public system. Private healthcare is more expensive than the public system, but it is often preferred by expats due to the higher quality of care," said one expat living in Panama.

"It is not like others want you to believe. It is not up to US standards. The one private hospital wants you to believe they are part of the Johns Hopkins network and they are not. Clinics are often store fronts, crowded and dirty. Equipment is old. ," mentioned one expat in Coronado.

"The Clinic in Horconsitos is open only part time. Additional Clinic is available M-F in San Lorenzo. Otherwise a trip to Davis is required, 1:15 minutes away from home," remarked one expat living in Boca Chica.

"Panama has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing a wide range of medical services. The country has a number of highly-trained doctors and specialists, and many of the larger hospitals offer advanced medical treatments and procedures. In addition, Panama has a number of medical tourism options, with many people travelling to the country for medical treatments and procedures that may not be available in their home countries. The cost of medical services in Panama is generally lower than in other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking medical care," said one expat living in Panama.

"If you can get health insurance before you have issues, the private insurance is affordable compared to the US. I'd say about 25 percent of the cost," said one expat living in Bocas del Toro.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Panama can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public health insurance is available, but it is limited and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Panama can be higher than in other countries, so it is important to research the cost of medical care before making any decisions," mentioned one expat in Panama.

"Health insurance is not accepted by providers of care. Have Tricare which is military insurance world wide and is part of the Hopkins network so we thought the private hospital that says they are part of Hopkins would accept it. We were sadly mistaken and had the worst experience of our life. If you compare US costs and Panama cost, yes, it is less expensive. But, it is still expensive if you have to pay for surgery before any care is rendered. ," commented one expat who moved to Coronado, 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," remarked one expat living in La Chorrera.

"Private hospital is one hour away and forget any ambulance services. We had an emergency (needed surgery) and we almost lost the life of my husband," wrote one expat.

"You must go to Panama City an hour away and you must have Cash! No one will take insurance and treat you. Credit cards are not accepted nor are checks. All care even surgery must be paid for before any care is given. They will refuse care and put you on the street regardless of your condition. ," said an expat in Coronado.

"If I needed a specialist I would go into Panama City to Punta Pacifica hospital, which is a private hospital," commented one expat living in Coronado, Panama.

"I was in a public hospital overnight for an open wound on the back of my arm caused by a car accident. The care, and the food, in the public hospital was subpar to standard treatment in the U.S., but as soon as I left the free public hospital and went to a private Dr. at his office, which is open 7 days a week 365 days a yea. Once at the office the Dr. came outside to the car I was riding in and looked at my elbow and said, it need some stitches here, here and here and I can fix it right up. I told him that's exactly what I'd said to the ambulance drivers the day before. So, I went inside and about 45 minutes later I was sewn back together and good to go," wrote one expat.

"I need many prescriptions, we have not needed refills yet, and have some waiting for us in the US. I intend to make a list of prescriptions and show it to Dr. Levy and find out what is available here in Coronado and what I need to go elsewhere to find," wrote an expat living in Coronado.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Panama. Most pharmacies in Panama carry a wide variety of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Panama are the same as those available in the United States, although some may be sold under different names. Additionally, some medications may be available in Panama that are not available in the United States. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a Panamanian doctor in order to be purchased," said an expat in Panama.

"Many common prescriptions are available over the counter just by talking to the pharmacist," commented one expat living in La Chorrera, Panama.

"Medical facilities in Panama are generally well equipped with modern technology, highly trained staff, and modernized infrastructure. The quality of medical care is excellent and there are many highly skilled specialists working in both public and private hospitals throughout the country. The Panamanian government also supports preventative health care and treatment, so many health issues can be identified and managed before they become more serious. Furthermore, there is a general consensus that Panama offers a high standard of healthcare with quick access to medical care and patient-centered approach to care," commented one expat who moved to Panama.

"Public and private hospitals. I was hospitalized and my insurance coveted it. It is very cheap. The care is better in Colombia. s.A," said one expat.

"Today, June 16, 2021, went to Parque Miguel Cervantes de Saarveda in David, Panama for a free COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test. I go the results on paper within 20-25 minutes without any difficulty. It helps to speak Spanish there. Be sure to check the print-out they provide to make sure all of your information is accurate and that it is stamped with their agency and Negativa," remarked one expat living in David.

"Yes, foreigners living in Panama have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Panama is generally considered to be of good quality, with many hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. However, foreigners may be required to pay a fee for certain services. In addition, many private healthcare providers offer services at a higher cost," said one expat living in Panama.

"I thought the response in Panama was good though too drastic. Closing beaches I felt was a mistake and pools at condos should have been limited not closed. Five months with no outdoor exercise was hell to live through. Also though many closures, very little enforcement," commented one expat living in Nueva Gorgona, Panama.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Panama. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of non-essential services and the suspension of elective surgeries. As a result, many healthcare facilities have been overwhelmed with the influx of patients seeking treatment for COVID-19. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Panama has been able to provide adequate care to those in need. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to ensure that the most vulnerable populations have access to healthcare services, including free testing and treatment for those who cannot afford it," wrote one expat.