Panama’s medical attention is comparable to others from first world countries. The foreign Visitors can have access to the latest in medical technology, ultimate procedures , high quality service and very well trained professionals.
As a reference, some years ago, most of the patients looking for medical tourism ended up traveling to India or Thailand for their low prices. At that time medical tourism was barely 2 millions per year but today is over 7 millions.
There are many reasons why people decide to look for better health care: lowers costs, shorter waiting time for surgeries, and to received therapies still not approved in their home countries. Panama has a reputation of being very responsible in all subjects related to people’s health in order to prevent any foreign tourist to be deceived with false promises on costs or miracle treatments.
What makes Panama a good destination for this type of tourism?
The high quality of medicines, the latest in medical equipment and a good amount of doctors graduated from the most prestigious universities from all over the world. Having most of the medical staff speak English is a plus. From the logistic point of view, Panama has direct connection with more than 90 cities from all over the continent, saving time and money. But the biggest advantage is the health infraestructure. The Paitilla Medical Center (acquired recently by Hospiten Group as part of their international expansion) is the only hospital in the region with direct connection to a hotel. Punta Pacifica Hospital (Affiliated to Jonhs Hopkins Medicine International) and the San Fernando Medical Clinic have JCI Certification (Joint Comission International), a recognition given by a renowned American company for outstanding medical attention and high quality infraestructure. Also, the National Hopsital, is the only one in the region with robotic technology to do Da Vinci Surgery. All these amazing Hospital Centers work with local and international health insurance companies.
Luis Santa Maria, General Manager of Panasalud, a company that promotes communication and information on the health industry says “that one of the biggest challenges that Panama faces is to create a health culture that will enable foreign tourist to see Panama as a good place to received a medical procedure or treatment. We need to promote it, a foreign visitor coming for health tourism invests up to 7% or 8% more in comparison with a standard tourist. Besides needing accommodations, they require medical attention, medicines and other professional services.
Medical Tourism is a segment that will continue to grow globally and faster, generating prosperity for many people either directly or indirectly. Promoting it will elevate the nation’s brand, because health is the most valuable asset in life. Developing this type of tourism, humanizes our society , treating tourists both with principles and values, teaches us to be better human beings.
