Panama Medical and Health Information

Panama Health Notes

Water in the two main cities, Panama City and Col ón, is safe to drink. In more rural settings, this is often not the case. Also, diarrhea is common for travelers who are unaccustomed to the new diet and water, so bottled water is probably a good idea, especially if a visitor is not staying long. Wash all vegetables in a chlorine solution, peel fruits, and avoid uncooked food. Drink only powdered or tinned milk and avoid other dairy products since they are most likely unpasteurized. Most fare served in restaurants is perfectly healthful.

Malaria and yellow fever are more common in rural areas, but hepatitis and tuberculosis are a major threat everywhere (especially in poorer areas).

Panama is extremely hot, so take precautions against sunstroke and heatstroke, drink lots of liquids, and use sunblock when outdoors.

The medical system is adequate in larger cities; medical staff can usually speak English. Costs are as high as in North America, but private medical services are reliable and modern. Panama guarantees health care facilities for both nationals and foreign visitors who may need them. Nevertheless, a travel insurance package that includes an evacuation policy should be acquired by all business travelers. Medical evacuation is expensive, and payment of costs must be borne by the visitor.

Panama Medical Care

Hospital Punta Paitilla & Clinic/Marbella
Centro
Tel: [507] 269-5222

Hospital Santo Tomás
Avenida Balboa
Panama City
Tel: [507] 227-4122

Clinica de Especialidades Medicas
Edif. Vallarino, Calle 32 y Avda Cuba
Panama City
Tel: 225-9183

Clinica Nacional
Avda Justo Arosemena
Panama City
Tel: [507] 226-544