Health Insurance in Panama

Panama offers a range of healthcare options, from public hospitals to private clinics, and health insurance is a critical consideration for expats and digital nomads living in the country. Understanding the local insurance landscape and how it compares to expat-specific plans is essential for ensuring adequate coverage and peace of mind during your stay in Panama.

Health Insurance Companies in Panama

Several health insurance companies operate in Panama, offering a variety of plans that cater to different needs and budgets. Expats are eligible to purchase health insurance from these companies, which include prominent providers such as Seguros Mapfre, ASSA Compañía de Seguros, and Internacional de Seguros. These insurers offer plans that can cover a range of medical services, from routine check-ups to emergency treatments, often with the option to include international coverage. It's important for expats to compare plans and understand the terms and conditions before making a decision.

Expat Health Insurance in Panama

Many expats living in Panama opt for specialized expat health insurance plans. These plans are designed to meet the unique needs of foreigners residing in the country, providing coverage that may not be available through local insurers. Expat health insurance often includes features like medical evacuation, repatriation, and a wider network of hospitals and clinics, both in Panama and internationally. This can be particularly important for those who travel frequently or prefer to have the option of receiving medical treatment abroad.

Local Health Insurance vs. Expat Health Insurance

When deciding between local health insurance and expat health insurance, expats and digital nomads must consider their specific circumstances. Local insurance plans are often more cost-effective and provide sufficient coverage for many individuals. However, those who require a broader scope of services, including international coverage, may find that expat health insurance plans are more suitable. Additionally, expats with pre-existing conditions or those who desire a higher standard of care often lean towards expat-specific insurance to ensure their needs are fully met.

Considerations for Health Insurance Abroad

When choosing health insurance while living overseas, there are several important factors to consider. One key aspect is the method of payment for medical services. Some insurers operate on a cashless basis, directly settling bills with healthcare providers, while others require policyholders to pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement. The time taken to process claims and the ease of communication with the insurer are also crucial considerations. Additionally, understanding the extent of coverage, including geographical limits, exclusions, and whether the plan covers medical evacuation, can significantly impact the suitability of a policy for an expat's lifestyle and healthcare needs.

Expats talk about Health Insurance 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 living in 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," mentioned 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 an expat in Panama.

"Health care is excellent, in private hospitals, with excellent doctors, specialists, surgeons, nurses, etc....and price are cheaper than the USA. A Healthcare plan here (we are with Cigna but there are many other companies to choose from) covers us, my wife and I, in Panama and worldwide for a fraction of USA health plan cost so Healthcare is very affordable in Panama," remarked one member living in Panama.

"We compared 5 different plans on pricing, deductible, co-pay. Out-of-pocket, coverage, network doctors, specialist and hospital and the more advantageous plan was Cigna International for a worldwide coverage except USA (you can include the USA but like all the other plans, you will pay more). We had a bad experience with Blue Cross Blue Shield Panama with months of waiting for payments that was less than expected since complicated contract was difficult to understand. We are now with Cigna International and we pay just a little bit more per month than BCBS but claim refunds takes about one to two weeks with no questions asked besides sending your doctors bills, pharmacy bills, hospital bills, etc using their App. ," said one expat living in Panama.