The healthcare system in Volcan 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.
Panama’s Healthcare System
Panama’s public healthcare system, known as the Caja de Seguro Social (CSS), is available to all residents, including foreigners. However, the quality of care in public hospitals can be inconsistent, and many people do not recommend using them for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries. Public hospitals in Volcan are typically crowded and may lack certain resources. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but many choose to use private hospitals instead. Private hospitals in Panama, including those in Volcan, are generally well-equipped and staffed with English-speaking doctors. They are often recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Volcan
Volcan is a small town and does not have a large number of hospitals. However, there are a few clinics that are recommended for expats:
- Centro Medico Dr. Efraín A. Vega – a private clinic located in Volcan.
- Policlinica Dr. Blas Gómez Chetro – a public clinic in the nearby town of Bugaba, about a 30-minute drive from Volcan.
- Hospital Mae Lewis – a private hospital in David, about an hour’s drive from Volcan. This hospital is known for its specialist care.
Emergency Services in Volcan
Emergency services in Volcan are limited. There is no dedicated ambulance service in the town. In case of an emergency, residents typically have to arrange for private transport to the nearest hospital. This can sometimes lead to delays in receiving urgent medical care.
Health Insurance Companies in Volcan
There are several popular private health insurance companies in Volcan, including Seguros Mapfre and ASSA Compañía de Seguros. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including coverage for treatment in private hospitals. Many expats and digital nomads in Volcan choose to use these local insurance providers, although some prefer to use international health insurance providers that specialize in coverage for expats.
Insider Tips from Expats in Volcan: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Volcan for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might be surprised at how far your money can go here. There are some sacrifices you’ll have to make, but overall, I think you’ll find it to be a great place to live.First, let’s talk about housing. There are plenty of affordable neighborhoods in Volcan where you can find a nice house or apartment for a reasonable price. I’d recommend looking in areas like Paso Ancho, Bambito, or Nueva California. These neighborhoods are safe, have a good sense of community, and are close to shops and other amenities. On the other hand, I’d avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Volcan Baru or Cerro Punta, as they tend to cater more to tourists and can be quite pricey.As for utilities and other expenses, you’ll find that they’re generally quite affordable in Volcan. Electricity and water bills are usually lower than what you’d pay in the US or Europe, and internet service is reliable and reasonably priced. You might have to sacrifice a bit on the speed of your internet connection, but it should be more than sufficient for everyday use.Groceries and eating out are also quite affordable in Volcan. There are several supermarkets and local markets where you can find fresh produce, meats, and other staples at reasonable prices. Eating out at local restaurants is also quite cheap, although you might have to adjust your expectations when it comes to the variety of cuisine available. You’ll find plenty of Panamanian and Latin American dishes, but options for international cuisine might be more limited.One sacrifice you might have to make is in terms of entertainment and shopping. Volcan is a small town, so you won’t find the same variety of stores, malls, and entertainment options that you might be used to in a larger city. However, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, like hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside.In terms of transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive in Panama due to import taxes and high gas prices. However, public transportation is affordable and fairly reliable, so you might consider using buses and taxis to get around instead.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Volcan on $5,000 a month is not only possible but quite comfortable. You’ll have to make some adjustments and sacrifices, but the lower cost of living, beautiful surroundings, and friendly community make it well worth it,” commented an expat living in Volcan.
