Is Health Insurance Required When Moving to Panama?

When planning a move to Panama as an expat or digital nomad, one of the essential considerations is healthcare. While Panama offers a public healthcare system, it is crucial for newcomers to have private health insurance upon arrival, especially during the period before obtaining residency or enrolling in the public healthcare system. The Panamanian government does not have a specific health insurance requirement for entry into the country, but having coverage is highly advisable to avoid high out-of-pocket costs in case of medical emergencies. For residency applications, it is often recommended to have health insurance that covers you in Panama, although the minimum coverage amounts and length of coverage required can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. It's important to ensure that your insurance plan is valid in Panama and provides sufficient coverage for the duration of your stay.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Most expat health insurance plans are designed to meet the requirements of various countries for residency applications. However, it is essential to verify that your chosen plan is accepted in Panama and provides comprehensive coverage. The insurance should ideally cover a range of medical services, including hospitalization, emergency services, and possibly medical evacuation. It's also important to check if the plan has a network of hospitals and doctors in Panama that you can access. Before purchasing a plan, expats should carefully review the policy details to ensure it aligns with their needs and any visa requirements they may need to fulfill.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

In Panama, there are several reputable local health insurers that offer plans suitable for expats and digital nomads. Companies such as Seguros Mapfre, ASSA Compañía de Seguros, and Internacional de Seguros are well-established and provide a range of health insurance options that can be tailored to individual needs. These insurers have plans that are recognized by the Panamanian government and are suitable for visa applications. They offer various levels of coverage, from basic to comprehensive plans, and have networks of hospitals and clinics throughout the country. It's advisable to compare different plans and providers to find the best fit for your healthcare needs and budget.

Advice from Expats in Panama about Health Insurance

Experienced expats in Panama often emphasize the importance of securing a health insurance plan that offers coverage for both minor and major medical issues. They recommend choosing a policy with a high coverage limit to ensure that you are well-protected against potentially expensive medical treatments. Additionally, it's wise to look for plans with a straightforward claims process and clear policy terms to avoid any misunderstandings in the event of a medical emergency. Expats also suggest considering plans that include coverage for prescription medications and any pre-existing conditions you may have. Lastly, while cost is an important factor, it should not be the sole determinant of your choice; the quality of coverage and peace of mind are invaluable when living abroad.

Expats Talk about Health Insurance in 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," said one expat who moved to La Chorrera, 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," mentioned one expat when asked about moving to 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," stated one expat in Panama City, 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. ," remarked one expat in Panama.